Bournemouth have completed the signing of Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga on a season-long loan for the 2024-25 campaign.
The 29-year-old Spaniard, who is the world’s most expensive goalkeeper following his £71 million ($92 million) move to Stamford Bridge in 2018, will provide competition for Brazilian keeper Neto at the Vitality Stadium.
Before his loan move, Kepa signed a one-year contract extension with Chelsea, keeping him at the club until the summer of 2026.
This move allows Chelsea to mitigate the financial impact of his departure and preserve any potential transfer value he may still hold in the current market.
Kepa spent last season on loan at Real Madrid, replacing the injured Thibaut Courtois.
However, he struggled to make an impact and lost his place in the side to Andriy Lunin. With new Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca not including him in his first-team plans for the current campaign, Kepa became available for a move away from Stamford Bridge.
Bournemouth chief executive Neill Blake expressed his delight at securing Kepa’s services, stating: “We are delighted to bring a player of Kepa’s calibre to AFC Bournemouth. We were aware of his availability, and we were keen to take the opportunity to bring him to the club on loan.”
Kepa’s arrival at Bournemouth is likely to signal the departure of Republic of Ireland international Mark Travers, who has been linked with several Premier League and Championship clubs.
Travers has been the backup to Neto over the last two seasons, making four league and four cup appearances in 2023/24.
During his time at Chelsea, Kepa has experienced both highs and lows. He was praised for his distribution and ability with the ball at his feet, as well as his good reflexes and decision-making under Graham Potter.
However, he also drew criticism for inconsistent performances and a low save percentage in his debut season.
A season-long loan at Bournemouth could provide Kepa with the fresh start he needs to reinvigorate his career and once again showcase the promise he had during his time at Athletic Bilbao.
As he looks to dislodge Neto as the Cherries’ regular starting goalkeeper, Kepa will be hoping to prove his worth and potentially earn a permanent move away from Chelsea in the future.
