Arsenal have announced the permanent signing of Kepa Arrizabalaga from rivals Chelsea in a £5 million deal.
It comes as the Gunners have looked to improve their goalkeeping ranks over the past few seasons, with plenty of changes taking place for Mikel Arteta’s shot-stoppers.
As it stands, Arsenal have David Raya as their first-choice, but have chopped and changed with his backups.
With Kepa Arrizabalaga completing a switch from Stamford Bridge to the Emirates Stadium, the Gunners finally have a complete goalkeeping duo.
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Arsenal sign Kepa Arrizabalaga from rivals Chelsea
Arsenal have moved swiftly to sign Kepa Arrizabalaga to avoid a repeat of last summer’s goalkeeping issues.
The Spaniard becomes the tenth player to move from Chelsea to Arsenal, only furthering the transfer connection between the two clubs, despite the rivalry.
Kepa holds the record for being the most expensive goalkeeper in transfer history, costing over £70 million for Chelsea to sign him from Athletic Club in 2018.
The Spaniard struggled to progress from his potential into a top prospect for the Blues, losing the number one shirt.
A few loan moves at Real Madrid and Bournemouth have followed as the 30-year-old has looked to reignite his career.
At Arsenal, Kepa will be hopeful that Mikel Arteta is able to get the best out of him, while competing for the number one shirt with David Raya.
Kepa Arrizabalaga ready to challenge David Raya while bringing stability to Arsenal goalkeeping ranks
Kepa Arrizabalaga’s arrival at Arsenal will finally put an end to the revolving door of goalkeepers through the club.
Aaron Ramsdale’s exit forced the Gunners to find a backup to Raya last season and while they pushed for Joan Garcia, a move couldn’t be completed in time.
Instead, they landed Neto on loan, but it was clear that he wasn’t the long-term solution.
The fresh move for Kepa finally brings all of that to an end, as the 30-year-old looks to fight for his place in the team.
Now, attention can finally turn towards the next position that the club want to strengthen in.
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