Arsenal confirm first summer signing – with two more set to follow | OneFootball

Arsenal have confirmed the signing of goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga on a three-year deal from Chelsea for £5m.

The Spaniard becomes the Gunners’ first summer signing, and is set to provide competition for first-choice goalkeeper David Raya.

Kepa remains the world’s most expensive goalkeeper, having joined Chelsea for £72 million back in 2018.

He spent last season on loan at Bournemouth, playing 35 times in all competitions.

The addition of Kepa is expected to be followed by the signings of midfielders Martin Zubimendi and Christian Norgaard.

Speaking on Monday about Norgaard’s impending move to Arsenal, Brentford director of football Phil Giles said: “I think it’s more likely than not. I think it’s very well documented who’s interested.

“If he ends up leaving and going to a club that has more opportunities to win things than we do towards the end of his career then he’s more than earned it because he’s been an unbelievable player for us.

“Fantastic six years, great captain, and a brilliant person. Nothing’s done but it’s a strong possibility.”

On signing Kepa, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta said: “We 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.

“Kepa 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.”

Kepa said: “I’m really, really happy to be here, really excited and looking forward to what is coming.

“The 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.”