The 30-year-old would cost Arsenal £5 million ($6.7m) with sources adding that although a deal is not finalised talks are progressing positively. Arsenal had wanted to sign Espanyol goalkeeper Joan García but the 24-year-old now looks likely to remain in LaLiga with Barcelona.

The 30-year-old spent last season on loan at Bournemouth, keeping nine clean sheets in 35 games for the south-coast club.

Kepa's contract carries a £5m buyout clause, which Arsenal are now ready to trigger after agreeing contract terms with the Spain international, says the Athletic. Kepa will arrive to compete with countryman David Raya at Arsenal, rather than replace him.