Arsenal are now set to make three signings in one position this summer as Mikel Arteta plots major overhaul.
There are likely to be big changes in the goalkeeper department at Arsenal this summer.
There was a major shift between the sticks at the Emirates Stadium this summer, as David Raya arrived on a season-long loan deal from Brentford and quickly usurped Aaron Ramsdale as the No. 1.
Whilst Ramsdale may feel somewhat hard done by to have lost his starting berth, Mikel Arteta clearly feels that Raya is a better tactical fit for the North London club. Ramsdale may be a more spectacular shot-stopper, but the Spaniard offers more control. The 28-year-old is marginally better on the ball, adopts a far more aggressive starting position, and excels when it comes to claiming crosses.
Raya won the Premier League Golden Glove this season. Whilst he often did not have to make a great number of saves in a game, he was instrumental to the Gunners’ overall solidity at the back. Arsenal are now set to sign Raya on a permanent basis for a £27 million fee.
Arsenal facing goalkeeper exodus
Arsenal are aware that Ramsdale will likely leave the club this summer. At this stage in his career, the England star needs to be playing regular football. Not only will the Gunners need to finalise a deal for Raya then, but they will also have to bring in a replacement for Ramsdale.
On top of that, the future of Karl Hein is now in considerable doubt. The 22-year-old Hale End academy graduate was the club’s third-choice ‘keeper this season, but his current contract is set to expire this summer. Arsenal are currently trying to strike a late deal with Hein to keep him at the club, but are simultaneously preparing for his potential exit.
As reported by The Athletic, Arteta faces an “exodus” of goalkeepers. It is said that Arsenal will: “Need a deputy for Raya, but they are also considering adding a third goalkeeper.”
Who Mikel Arteta will consider to replace Aaron Ramsdale and Karl Hein
Any third choice goalkeeper will likely either be another youngster, to replace Hein if he moves on, or a very experienced option who can offer guidance behind the scenes rather than represent a realistic playing option.
In terms of a replacement for Ramsdale, Wojciech Szczesny has been linked with a sensational return to Arsenal. The Poland international remains a popular figure at the Emirates Stadium, but it remains to be seen if he’d be happy to play second fiddle behind Raya.