Arsenal make huge Aaron Ramsdale transfer decision as potential replacement named

Arsenal have turned down an approach from Ajax for goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale. The England international lost his place in the starting XI to David Raya last season having had two successful seasons as Mikel Arteta's number one.

The 26-year-old started just 11 games last campaign and has been linked with a move away from Emirates Stadium this summer. According to The Athletic, Arsenal recently received an approach from Ajax over an initial loan, but that was swiftly rejected by the Gunners.

It's thought Arsenal would favour a permanent exit as they seek to recoup some of the £30million they paid to Sheffield United in 2021. Ajax remain optimistic a deal can be done, however, and remain interested in the former Bournemouth man.

The Athletic reports that Arsenal have also lined up a replacement should Ramsdale depart this transfer window. Espanyol's Joan Garcia is of interest, with the 23-year-old keeping 12 clean sheets in 21 appearances last season.

football.london understands Wolves goalkeeper Dan Bentley is also of interest with the Gunners seeing their first offer rejected earlier in the window. The north Londoners are yet to return for a second bid for the Wolves star.

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With the transfer window slamming shut on August 30, the goalkeeping department at Arsenal could chance significantly depending on if Ramsdale secures an exit away. Judging by his comments made before the start of Euro 2024 while on international duty with England, the goalkeeper would prefer a move elsewhere.

"No footballer wants to not play," he told talkSPORT. "I’ve had a tough year personally not playing and I never want to do that again.

"It was tough, it was tough. But I have my release now, I’m now here, I’ve got the greatest honour, the greatest badge on my chest, I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, if I play a minute or no minutes, it will be the pinnacle for me, the best day ever."