Arsenal are in advanced talks with Sheffield United for the transfer of Aaron Ramsdale, reports Chris Wheatley of football.london.
The Gunners have been heavily linked with a move for the 23-year-old all summer and are now closing in on their target for a fee which is expected to be around £24 million with add-ons.
Mikel Arteta’s side have already seen two bids for Ramsdale rejected by the Championship club.
Aaron Ramsdale Closing in on Arsenal Move
Ramsdale Absent From Last Match
Ramsdale started the Blades’ opening game of the season, a 1-0 defeat at home to Birmingham City, but was absent from the squad completely for last night’s EFL Cup success against Carlisle United.
Michael Verrips started the game for Slavisa Jokanovic’s side, while Wes Foderingham took a spot on the bench.
Speaking after the game, the Blades boss said: “There is nothing in his absence, no, nothing.
“I just needed to give some players a chance and others a rest.
“Aaron is my first choice, that I can definitely say.
“But I need to see what other people can do in case something happens. What other options we have and what other choices are here.”
Arsenal’s Decision Made
Arsenal had also been looking at the possibility of signing Andre Onana from Ajax.
While this would have certainly been a cheaper option, Onana’s minimal price is due to him currently serving a doping ban.
The Cameroonian goalkeeper will be able to resume training on September 4, but will still not be able to play until November 4 at the earliest.
Ramsdale is only two years younger than Onana, so it’s clear Arsenal were looking at a particular age for their new goalkeeper. However, Ramsdale also provides Arsenal with a homegrown alternative to Bernd Leno.
While the deal is not yet complete, given his absence from the Sheffield United squad, it certainly looks likely that Ramsdale is on his way back to the Premier League.
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