Arsenal could test Sheffield United’s resolve over goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale by launching a formal offer in the coming days.
According to the Express, Arsenal are ready to formally open proceedings with Sheffield United for goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale. The Gunners could make a reasonable offer to the Blades and test their resolve over the English shot-stopper.
Ramsdale’s name has come up plenty of times this summer with regards to a link with Arsenal. The goalkeeper remains busy with the England camp at the UEFA Euro 2020, and once the tournament concludes, a move could be on the cards. Arsenal have recently stepped up their search for a goalkeeper, and Ramsdale is the main target.
Had it not been for Bernd Leno’s reported desire to move, Arsenal would have been searching for a deputy to the German. Those plans are now tossed as Arsenal look for a No.1 to replace former Bayer Leverkusen star. Ramsdale’s name has been thrown constantly alongside Andre Onana recently.
The interest in the Ajax keeper has somewhat cooled off though, as Arsenal remain focused on Ramsdale. The Sheffield United keeper had a strong season despite his side’s relegation from the Premier League. His call up to the England squad for the Euros is also a testament to his reputation, and Arsenal believe he could be their no.1 keeper long term.
The hurdle so far has been Sheffield’s asking price, as they reportedly value Ramsdale around £40 million, having only signed the keeper last season for about £18 million. However, Arsenal are ready to make a reasonable offer, but it could be nowhere near the £40 million Sheffield reportedly wants.
Arsenal have a clear plan for Ramsdale if he signs. He will be made their No.1 if Leno is to leave this summer. In the scenario that Leno stays, with two years left on his deal, Arsenal might move the German next summer and promote Ramsdale to his position then.
If Leno leaves and the Gunners can sign Ramsdale, that still leaves an empty spot for a backup keeper. With Mat Ryan deciding against rejoining Arsenal after a decent six-month loan spell, Runar Alex Runarsson remains the only option. Arsenal, though, are set to sell the Icelandic international to the Turkish side Altay.
Instead of replacing Runarsson from the market, Arsenal are considering promoting 19-year-old academy prospect Arthur Okonkwo as their no.2. How much will they trust Okonkwo for that role remains to be seen by Arsenal’s activity in the market after securing their top goalkeeping target.
In the coming days, we could get more accurate details on Arsenal’s reported offer for Ramsdale. Will Sheffield United accept their offer remains the question. The Englishman can be sure of a good future if he is to sign for the Gunners, but the player so far has not indicated any intention to leave the Blades.
We just tired of nonsense all the time.If is planning to bring in new players but sellin good players is not good and Arteta should styeup.
Berge will move on from Sheff Utd, that was always the plan for him and the club. He’s an established international, yet Arsenal offer peanuts. Half his release clause.. Ramsdale has no release clause, has a long contract and stated he has no desire to move. Still, Arsenal try to destabilise him and the club. I’m sure the Sheff Utd board is already annoyed by Ars low budget behaviour, so with three years of parachute payments to come, there’s no chance of ramsdale moving without meeting the £40m quoted. Maybe they might be tempted by offering £65m for the pair of them?