Arsenal are close to finalising a deal for Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, according to reports.
The 30-year-old – who has a staggeringly low £5million release clause – spent last season on loan with Bournemouth and kept eight clean sheets in his 31 Premier League appearances.
Back in 2018, the Blues splashed out £72m on Kepa to snap him up from Athletic Bilbao, which represented a world record fee for a goalkeeper.
Mikel Arteta is believed to be keen on hiring a deputy to his current No 1 in between the sticks – David Raya.
As such, Arsenal have made Arrizabalaga their first signing of the summer, as per The Atheltic.
Arrizabalaga’s meagre fee sees him move on from Chelsea for a fee around 14 times less than his initial move to the west London club.
Arsenal are reportedly close to sealing a £5m deal for Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga
Arrizabalaga will join the Gunners as a backup to their current No 1 shot-stopper – David Raya
Last in action for Chelsea in 2023, Arrizabalaga featured 163 times in blue, keeping 59 clean sheets and winning four major honours.
The Spaniard was also sent out on loan to Real Madrid in 2023, making 14 appearances.
The north London club have been busy in the post-season, already confirming the exit of 20 players, including Raheem Sterling, Kieran Tierney, Neto and Jorginho.
On Friday, Gabriel signed a new four-year contract, extending his stay at the Emirates until 2029.
Meanwhile, there is also heavy speculation over Thomas Partey’s future.
While Arsenal appear to be fast on their feet in this transfer window, Arrizabalaga’s signing does little to address what many fans believe is a focal point of concern – the Gunners’ lack of goals.
