Arsenal have identified Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga as their priority target in the hunt for a new backup option, according to reports. The Gunners plan to sign a new stopper to provide David Raya with competition after Neto returns to Bournemouth from his loan stint in July.
And Kepa, who enjoyed a successful loan spell of his own at Bournemouth in Neto’s absence, has emerged as Mikel Arteta’s preferred option. According to The Athletic, Arsenal initially eyed a swoop for Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia. However, the Spaniard looks set to join Barcelona this summer, prompting a change in strategy.
Kepa is said to have a £5million release clause in his Chelsea contract, which Arsenal view as an enticing opportunity.
The Emirates Stadium giants hope to convince Kepa to switch allegiances as they actively pursue an agreement on personal terms.
Once Neto leaves, Karl Hein will represent Arteta’s only alternative goalkeeper option to Raya after his loan stint at Real Valladolid.
Kepa made 35 appearances and kept nine clean sheets for Bournemouth last season, helping Andoni Iraola’s side finish ninth in the Premier League.
It was the club’s joint-record top-flight finish, accumulating an all-time best 56 points, which almost placed them in contention for European football.
Kepa has turned his career around in England after a disastrous time at Chelsea following his £72m arrival from Athletic Club in 2018.
The Spain international, who has earned 13 caps, faced an uphill battle to win his sceptics over due to the eye-watering transfer fee – still a record for a goalkeeper.
But he will look back at his Stamford Bridge career fondly, making 163 appearances and lifting the Champions League, Europa League, FIFA Club World Cup and UEFA Super Cup.
Arsenal’s interest is no surprise, given his renaissance at Bournemouth and the fact he offers Premier League and Champions League experience at an attractive price.
A return to the Vitality Stadium appears off the cards, especially with admirers at the level of Arsenal in the frame.
At the end of last season, Kepa seemingly bid farewell to Bournemouth with a reflective post on Instagram.
It read: “We fought it. We enjoyed it. Grateful to be part of this team @afcb. A big thank you for all your support, Cherries! It has been a pleasure. Up the Cherries.”
Kepa could yet snub Arsenal and opt for a destination where he would be guaranteed regular starts, given he is only 30 and in his prime years.
