Arsenal are on the verge of signing Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea, triggering a modest £5 million release clause to secure the Spanish goalkeeper.
The fee has raised eyebrows given Kepa’s pedigree, but it stems from a unique contract situation: while still at Chelsea, Kepa negotiated a loan move to Bournemouth, agreeing to take a pay cut and extend his deal by one year. In return, Chelsea inserted a £5m release clause—a figure now being capitalised on by Arsenal.
The 29-year-old impressed during his season at Bournemouth, showcasing the form that once made him the most expensive goalkeeper in the world. With Neto returning to his parent club, Bournemouth had been exploring a permanent deal, but Arsenal’s swift move has put them in pole position.
Kepa is reportedly aware that David Raya is Arteta’s first-choice goalkeeper, but he is said to be willing to fight for the No. 1 spot and sees Arsenal as an ideal step forward in his career.
The deal is expected to be finalized in the coming days.
