Arsenal Closing in on £5m Deal for Chelsea Outcast After Triggering Release Clause

Arsenal are closing in on a cut-price £5m deal to sign goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea, with the Spain international set to provide competition for compatriot David Raya. Kepa became the world’s most expensive goalkeeper when he moved to Stamford Bridge in a £72m deal seven seasons ago from Athletic Bilbao.

However, he spent last season on loan at Bournemouth, starting all but three Premier League games, after signing a new deal at his parent club that included a £5m release clause and significantly lowered his salary.

Bournemouth were keen on making his move to the south coast permanent, with head coach Andoni Iraola stating: “I think it is a matter of negotiating with Kepa himself and with Chelsea. I believe that both parties are rather pleased with his loan period.

Kepa Arrizabalaga, 30, is getting ready to join the increasing number of players who have switched from Chelsea to Arsenal over the years. Last season at Arsenal, his old teammate Raheem Sterling struggled to establish himself in a squad that also featured former Chelsea players Kai Havertz and Jorginho, both of whom had their own difficulties adjusting to the new surroundings.In an attempt to bolster their roster, the Gunners first pursued Joan Garcia, a talented goalkeeper for Espanyol. But according to current events, Garcia is more likely to join with Barcelona, therefore Arsenal will need to reevaluate their choices as they try to strengthen their squad for the forthcoming campaign.

Mikel Arteta’s pursuit of a new centre forward continues, with Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres near the top of their wishlist. A deal to sign Spain midfielder Martin Zubimendi is also progressing, with the Real Sociedad star having a £51m release clause.

Meanwhile, Chelsea have already secured striker Liam Delap from relegated Ipswich Town, and it looks set to be another hectic transfer window in West London. The new addition is expected to feature in the controversial FIFA Club World Cup that begins next weekend, having not been selected by the England Under-21s for their defence of the European Championships.