Southampton are ‘advancing well’ in talks to sign Aaron Ramsdale from Arsenal.
Russell Martin has turned his attention to Ramsdale after the Saints’ deal for Feyenoord goalkeeper Justin Bijlow collapsed, due to findings in the player’s medical.
Ramsdale’s name has been circulated with Southampton all summer as the England international looks to leave Arsenal in search of regular first-team football. The 26-year-old lost his place as number one to David Raya last season and is keen to depart to keep alive his international ambitions.
Fabrizio Romano has reported that negotiations between Southampton and Arsenal are progressing well. The move would see Ramsdale return to the south coast having spent three seasons with Bournemouth between 2017 and 2020.
All parties are understood to be ‘optimistic’ that a deal can be completed before Friday’s transfer deadline, with Arsenal having lined up a deal for Joan Garcia as a Ramsdale replacement.
Terms have been agreed with Espanyol for the 23-year-old shot-stopper, who formed part of the Spain team that won gold at this summer’s Olympics in Paris.
Wolves had also been linked with a move for Ramsdale this summer, though Gary O’Neil’s side are now closing in on an alternative.
Ramsdale’s England teammate, Sam Johnstone, is expected to move to Molineux before the deadline after expressing his interest in leaving Crystal Palace. Wolves have agreed a £10m fee for the goalkeeper.
