Just seven years ago, Kepa Arrizabalaga broke the world record as the most expensive goalkeeper in history. Now, he’s completed a transfer from Chelsea to Arsenal for just 5,000,000 pounds. This move marks Arsenal’s first official signing of the current transfer window, ahead of the expected arrivals of Martín Zubimendi from Real Sociedad and Christian Norgaard from Brentford. The experienced Spanish goalkeeper, who spent last season on loan at Bournemouth, has signed a three-year contract with the Gunners and will now compete for the starting spot with compatriot David Raya.Here to raise the levels. Kepa Arrizabalaga is a Gunner. pic.twitter.com/8yMhga11ZC— Arsenal (@Arsenal) July 1, 2025 Arsenal activated the release clause in his Chelsea contract, and the deal was finalized relatively quickly—mainly due to Kepa’s desire to join Mikel Arteta’s side.”I’m very happy to be here—excited and looking forward to everything ahead. The ambition the club showed me through talks with Mikel and Inaki (the goalkeeping coach) clearly shows how much they want to win trophies. I believe we’re very close and I hope we can succeed together,” said Kepa upon signing.African star in negotiations with ArsenalTo recall, Kepa joined Chelsea from Athletic Bilbao in 2018 for 80,000,000 euros, still the world record fee for a goalkeeper. Although he never fully secured a consistent starting role at Stamford Bridge, he made numerous appearances and won several trophies with the Blues, including the Europa League and the Champions League. He started last season on loan at Real Madrid but later moved to Bournemouth, where he became a regular under manager Andoni Iraola, recording 35 starts and contributing to the club’s best-ever finish in the Premier League.Arsenal’s homegrown star remains loyal to North LondonInterestingly, Kepa agreed last July to a pay cut and contract extension with Chelsea to facilitate a loan move. At that time, the 5,000,000 release clause—now triggered by Arsenal—was agreed upon. Meanwhile, Arsenal continues to be active in the market. Martín Zubimendi and Christian Nørgaard are expected to be the next confirmed signings, while the club has also opened talks with Valencia over young center-back Cristhian Mosquera. The 21-year-old Spaniard is under contract until 2026, but Valencia is open to selling—as long as the buyer is a Champions League club. His valuation is around 30,000,000. RB Leipzig had shown interest but pulled out due to the high price.FIFA CLUB WORLD CUP 2025TuesdayManchester City – Al Hilal 3-4 AET (2-2)/Silva 9, Haaland 55, Foden 104 – Leonardo 46, 112, Malcom 52, Koulibaly 94/22.00: (1.67) Real Madrid (3.70) Juventus (5.50)Wednesday04.00: (1.80) Dortmund (3.60) Monterrey (4.60)***odds are subject to change***
