Arsenal Set to Sign Kepa in Strategic Move Despite Fan Concerns
There’s been quite a bit of chatter around the Emirates this week, and it’s not just about Arsenal’s ongoing pursuit of Viktor Gyokeres. While the hunt for a top-tier striker continues to drag on, Arsenal are making headway elsewhere in the transfer market. According to multiple sources, the Gunners are now on the verge of completing not one, but two signings this week – and one of those names might raise a few eyebrows: Kepa Arrizabalaga.
Yes, the former Chelsea goalkeeper is reportedly finalizing a move to North London after Arsenal activated his surprisingly low £5 million release clause. Kepa, still holding the record as the world’s most expensive goalkeeper after his £72 million move to Stamford Bridge in 2018, is expected to join Mikel Arteta’s side as a back-up option. The deal seems to be all but done, with paperwork now the only hurdle before an official announcement.
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Now, I know some fans might be scratching their heads on this one. Why bring in a 30-year-old goalkeeper when David Raya – younger and already integrated into Arteta’s system – is the clear number one? Critics, including former Arsenal defender William Gallas, argue that this signing lacks long-term vision. Gallas pointed out that a club like Arsenal should be investing in a young talent who can develop and eventually take over the gloves in future seasons. And you know what? He’s not wrong in principle.
But let’s look at the bigger picture here. This isn’t about building for five years down the line – it’s about maintaining elite-level competition in every position, right now. Arsenal are serious title contenders again. Arteta knows that one key injury, especially in goal, could derail everything. So when you look at the move through that lens – experience, Premier League familiarity, international pedigree – Kepa makes a bit more sense.
He’s just come off a solid loan spell at Bournemouth, where he helped steady their backline and regained some much-needed confidence. And while his Chelsea stint was up and down, it’s easy to forget he made over 160 appearances for them and won four trophies. That kind of experience doesn’t just grow on trees.
So, while Arsenal fans might have preferred a young prospect between the sticks, this deal shows a shift in mindset – one that prioritizes depth, reliability, and immediate impact. With pre-season looming and Arsenal’s tour to Spain and Singapore just weeks away, Arteta is clearly focused on wrapping up his transfer business early. Zubimendi is expected to be the first domino to fall, and Kepa looks set to follow.
In the end, whether it’s a masterstroke or a misstep will depend on how the season plays out. But one thing’s clear – Arsenal are moving with intent, and they’re not afraid to make bold, calculated decisions to close that gap at the top.
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