Alex Runarsson is on the verge of joining Alanyaspor on a dry loan, as he is unwanted at Arsenal.
According to Tutto Mercato Web, Arsenal outcast Alex Runarsson will join Alanyaspor in the coming days on a dry loan, with the Gunners keen on getting the goalkeeper off their books.
Arsenal are busy getting a few players out the door before the transfer window closes. After completing some important incoming business well on time, the Gunners want to trim their squad to Mikel Arteta’s optimal levels as they find solutions for players deemed unwanted by the manager.
Real Betis are closing in on Hector Bellerin, although the transfer will take some time before it’s completed. He is one of the highest earners on the Gunners’ roster and his departure will come as a boost, although the most crucial sale would be that of Nicolas Pepe.
The Gunners sold Lucas Torreira to Galatasaray after plenty of drama surrounding the midfielder. They don’t want a similar situation with another one of their wantaway stars in Alex Runarsson, with the goalkeeper not a part of Arteta’s plans for the season.
Runarsson endured an underwhelming first season as Bernd Leno’s understudy after arriving from French side Dijon in 2020. The 27-year-old Icelandic custodian spent the previous campaign on loan with Belgian side OH Leuven, making 17 league appearances and keeping two clean sheets in the process.
Despite Arsenal selling Bernd Leno to Fulham, they brought Matt Turner as Aaron Ramsdale’s understudy. The deal for the American was pre-arranged in January, and the USMNT star arrived before pre-season. Moreover, the club have promoted Karl Hein to the first team squad, leaving no room for Runarsson.
Arsenal are not expected to recoup much with Runarsson in the market and are happy to get him off their squad list. The Iceland international is set to move away to Turkey as Alanyaspor are keen on taking the keeper on loan. This will be a dry loan with no buy option or obligation.
Unless he performs admirably and forces Alanyaspor to consider making the signing permanent, Runarsson will return to Arsenal for the 2023 pre-season. However, for now, he will spend a season on loan in Turkey, allowing the Gunners to trim their wage bill and make room in their squad for any further signings.
