**Arsenal Pursues Chelsea's Kepa Arrizabalaga as Backup Goalkeeper**

Arsenal is making a strategic move this summer to attract Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga as their prime choice for a backup goalkeeper. With Neto concluding his loan and heading back to Bournemouth, Arsenal finds itself thin on experienced alternatives. After failing to secure Espanyol's Joan Garcia, who appears set to join Barcelona, the Gunners have shifted their sights to the 30-year-old Arrizabalaga.

Arrizabalaga, who boasts Premier League and Champions League experience, comes with an enticing £5 million release clause in his Chelsea contract. Arsenal views this as a valuable market opportunity to bolster their roster with a seasoned goalkeeper at a reasonable cost. The club is actively working towards an agreement with Arrizabalaga and is eager to convince him to join their ranks.

In the previous season, the Spain international played 35 matches in all competitions while on loan at Bournemouth, securing nine clean sheets. His efforts aided Andoni Iraola's side in achieving a commendable ninth-place finish in the Premier League, gathering 56 points, their highest tally ever.

Arrizabalaga's career began with a significant move from Athletic Club to Chelsea for £71.6 million in 2018. Over the years, he has made 163 appearances for the English club, securing four major trophies, including the prestigious 2021 Champions League title.

Arsenal has long admired Arrizabalaga, and his name has frequently surfaced in their recruitment talks. The affordable price means he is likely to have multiple options this summer. However, the existing presence of David Raya, Arsenal's established first-choice goalkeeper, might pose a challenge. Despite this, Arrizabalaga is still open to considering Arsenal's proposal.