Arsenal have started this season without any European competition for the first time in a considerable period. Fans will expect nothing less than a top four finish from manager Mikel Arteta. However, the opening game loss against Brentford have set back the Gunners in their quest for a high finish.
The Gunners are in urgent need of creativity upfront and a suitable cover for goalkeeper Bernd Leno is also the need of the hour. Rúnar Alex Rúnarsson, having joined the London outfit only last year, has failed to make any mark in the team. If Leno had got injured against Brentford, the gloves would have been handed over to Karl Hein – an academy graduate without any competitive first-team minutes to his name.
However, The Star has recently reported that Arsenal’s pursuit of Sheffield United keeper Aaron Ramsdale took a decisive turn. According to the report, Officials in North London are confident that the offer, which is likely to be in the region of £28m, will be accepted by their counterparts at Bramall Lane.
Ramsdale’s Seasons In Premier League
The English keeper came up through the ranks of Blade’s academy, before joining AFC Bournemouth in 2017. After a few loan spells, Ramsdale made his spot in the first team under Eddie Howe. Bournemouth eventually got relegated to Championship but Ramsdale was a standout player that season. His quick approach and reflexes caught the eye of many scouts around the country.
Ramsdale joined newly-promoted Sheffield United in 2020 but had a de-ja-vu as the Blades also got relegated. However, he caught the eye with his decent display throughout the season and found himself in England’s Euro 2020 squad.
How Ramsdale Might Impact At Arsenal
Having brought in Ben White and Nuno Tavares, Arsenal have solidified their defence, however little that may look to be. Lokonga eventually joined to add mobility in midfield. However, the Gunners are yet to provide cover for goalkeeper Bernd Leno. Arsenal might have three other keepers in their ranks, but none of them appears to be ready for Premier League.
Aaron Ramsdale is well capable of holding his own between the sticks as he has shown over the last two seasons. He was vocal with the organisation of defence and his distribution was better than most keepers. He will keep Bernd Leno on his feet and will feature for the Gunners whenever called on. Arsenal defence won’t have to worry about having an inexperienced keeper at the back as they would be capable of sorting themselves out.
Arsenal might have found their man and do appear to be singing him soon. The Gunners should look to get it done and move on to the other areas of the squad without wasting any further time.