Club Brugge considered several experienced goalkeepers this summer, including Kepa Arrizabalaga, according to Belgian sources. Ultimately, the club chose to sign Yann Sommer on a free transfer.
As reported by Voetbalnieuws, Brugge sought to reinforce their goalkeeper position with an established player. Alongside Sommer, the club also explored the option of bringing in Marc-André ter Stegen and Kepa Arrizabalaga.
Kepa did not make the move to Belgium, instead continuing his career at Arsenal, where he currently serves as the backup to David Raya. He is listed as number 13 in the Gunners' squad for the 2026/27 Champions League.
Brugge's interest in Kepa stemmed from his wealth of experience. The goalkeeper has had spells at Athletic Bilbao, Chelsea, Real Madrid, Bournemouth, and now Arsenal. At Chelsea, he won the Champions League, Europa League, UEFA Super Cup, and the Club World Cup.
Ultimately, the Belgian club placed their faith in Sommer, who joined for free and was expected to be an experienced leader in Brugge's defence. However, the season has started inconsistently, and the goalkeeper has already faced criticism from Belgian media following a few errors.
Thus, Brugge had the opportunity to secure one of the most well-known goalkeepers of his generation, but negotiations with Kepa did not lead to a transfer. The Spaniard remained at Arsenal as Brugge continued their season with Sommer.
