Kepa Arrizabalaga has completed a move from Chelsea to Arsenal, but what does that mean for the Gunners’ current first-choice stopper David Raya?
Arsenal Sign Kepa Arrizabalaga From Chelsea
Arsenal have completed the signing of Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea on a three-year contract after triggering his ÂŁ5m release clause.
The 30-year-old, whom the Blues signed for a whopping ÂŁ71.8m from Athletic Club in 2018, has spent the last two seasons out on loan at Real Madrid and Bournemouth.
He is the Gunners’ first official signing of the transfer window, with international teammate Martin Zubimendi and Brentford midfielder Christian Norgaard set to follow through the door.
Upon signing with the club, Kepa said:Â âI’m really, really happy to be here, really excited and looking forward to what is coming.
âThe ambition that is shown in this club, when I talk with Mikel [Arteta] and Inaki [Cana], how much they show me their desire to win⊠I think we are so close to winning and, hopefully, altogether, we can achieve it.â
Welcome to The Arsenal, Kepa Arrizabalaga â€ïž
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) July 1, 2025
Mikel Arteta, meanwhile, added: âWe are really happy to have Kepa joining us. He is a player we know, having come up against him many times in recent seasons. He brings a wealth of experience, which his teammates will benefit from, and he has a real hunger to win.
âKepa works hard and will elevate our levels. I know he will fit in perfectly, already knowing some of his teammates, and we are really excited about his future with us.â
The shot-stopper will wear the number 13 shirt in North London.
It comes following the exit of Neto, who joined Arsenal on loan from Bournemouth last season.
What Does Kepa’s Arrival Mean For David Raya?
Kepa’s arrival likely won’t mean much for David Raya, as he remains the clear first choice.
However, it is understood that Arsenal chiefs have been impressed by the two-time Champions League winner’s desire to fight for a place in the team.
Of course, it would take something significant to dislodge Raya from the starting XI, but as was proven when the Spaniard arrived from Brentford and replaced Aaron Ramsdale in 2023, Arteta isn’t afraid to make changes in the goalkeeping department.
Who Is Arsenal’s Third-Choice Goalkeeper?
As it stands, Estonia international Karl Hein is presumably Arsenal’s third-choice goalkeeper.
He spent last term on loan at LaLiga side Real Valladolid, where he made 32 appearances across all competitions, but he looks to have fallen down the pecking order with Kepa’s arrival.
Hein joined the Gunners from Estonian side Nomme United in 2018.
The Athletic report that he could be set for another move this summer, with loan interest from Spain, while Arsenal are said to be open to letting him go on a permanent deal.
Other goalkeepers among their ranks include academy duo Tommy Setford and Jack Porter. The pair made their respective debuts for the club in the Carabao Cup last term.
Lucas Nygaard, Alexei Rojas and Khari Ranson are also listed as academy stoppers, and may join Setford and Porter in pushing for the third-choice spot if Hein does indeed depart.
