Ornstein: Arsenal set to land £150k per wk star as first summer signing

Arsenal are set to secure their first signing of the summer transfer window.

The Gunners are expected to make multiple additions to the squad this summer. A deputy goalkeeper is one of the top priorities after Neto’s return to Bournemouth.

The Athletic journalist David Ornstein has now confirmed that the London giants are preparing to trigger the £5 million release clause in Kepa Arrizabalaga’s contract at Chelsea.

The 30-year-old has agreed to join the Gunners. He is willing to fight for his place with compatriot David Raya, who has been an undisputed starter under manager Mikel Arteta.

Arrizabalaga was previously on £150,000 per week at Chelsea, but it is reported that his renewal last summer (until June 2026) also significantly reduced his wages.

Arrizabalaga would represent a good backup signing

The Gunners have had Espanyol’s Joan Garcia as a top target for the deputy keeper role. They agreed personal terms with the 24-year-old last summer, but a deal did not materialise.

Garcia is now keen on playing regular first-team football, which Arsenal can’t offer. The Spaniard has almost agreed to join Barcelona, who will activate his £21m buy-out clause.

Arrizabalaga would represent a good backup signing behind Raya. He had a fine loan stint with Bournemouth. He made almost 100 saves in the league, keeping nine clean sheets.

The Athletic Club graduate has also improved on keeping out long-range shots. He conceded just two goals from outside the box last term. Hence, he is a risk-free acquisition for the Gunners.

Arsenal have saved around £16m in transfer funds with the decision to land Arrizabalaga. Hopefully, the same will be used for the purchase of a marquee striker and versatile winger.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com, Capology.com & Sofascore.com

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