BY Jonathan Ledger
Chelsea have smashed the record transfer fee for a goalkeeper with the arrival of Athletic Bilbao’s Kepa Arrizabalaga for £71 million.
The Spanish number two keeper, who is to replace Real Madrid-bound Thibaut Courtois, comes at a price higher than what Liverpool paid in July for Alisson Becker (£66.8 million).
The 23-year-old goalkeeper was close to joining Real Madrid in January.
He, however, opted for the London club after they activated his release fee clause, saying several factors influenced his decision to come to England.
“So many things attracted me to the club – all the titles the club has won, the other players, the city, the English Premier League. It’s an accumulation of things, and I am very glad Chelsea has decided to trust me and to take me in as well,” the goalkeeper said.
The 6ft tall Athletic Bilbao youth product signed a seven-year contract and is expected to be Chelsea’s first choice between the sticks.
The player, who was part of Spain’s Russia 2018 squad, is seen as a worthy replacement for want-away Courtois.
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