Arsenal are set to shake up their entire goalkeeping roster, as two of the three current options may not be at the club next season.
Aaron Ramsdale is expected to leave after losing his place to David Raya, but third-choice option Karl Hein may also be on the way out in some capacity.
The 22-year-old has hardly featured for Arsenal, but is Estonia’s number one, and as it stands, is set to leave the club when his Gunners contract expires this summer.
Arsenal do not want to lose him, but even if he agrees to a new deal, he is unlikely to be the third choice option for next year.
Arsenal confident of Karl Hein contract extension
A report from The Standard has now revealed that Arsenal are confident that they can tie Hein down to a new deal, and if he does agree terms, that he will likely move on loan next season.
“The 22-year-old will likely head out on loan if he signs a new contract, with several Championship clubs monitoring his situation,” the report stated.
“Hein spent last season as Arsenal’s third-choice goalkeeper behind David Raya and Aaron Ramsdale and needs more minutes to continue his development, having previously spent time in the EFL with Reading.”
“Despite being only 22, he is already a regular for Estonia and the coaching staff at Arsenal believe he will continue to improve.”
Arsenal may need to sign two goalkeepers this summer
With youth standout Arthur Okonkwo also leaving on a free despite an impressive campaign for Wrexham, Arsenal may need to sign a third-choice goalkeeper.
A second goalkeeper is already needed to replace Ramsdale should he make his likely departure, and Justin Bijlow of Feyenoord could be an option.
A third-choice option is also needed in case of emergency. Hein has made just one senior appearance, and made an error in a Carabao Cup defeat to Brighton in November 2022.
However, this does not mean he will not need replacing. Arsenal can now either promote another youth goalkeeper, or look into the free agent market for a short-term deal to replace Hein whilst he is out on loan if he does commit his future to the club.
Hein is highly rated and could have the potential to become a number two in the future, but an emergency backup on a free transfer may need to be explored.