Our preview of the Premier League 2024-25 season continues with a focus on Arsenal’s goalkeepers. This update will be brief since Arsenal currently only have David Raya and Aaron Ramsdale. It is anticipated that Ramsdale will move on before the transfer window closes, and Arsenal will secure a genuine backup for Raya.
Recent transfer speculation has linked Ajax with an interest in Ramsdale. Arsenal recently turned down an initial loan offer from the Dutch club for the England international, according to The Athletic. Ramsdale has also attracted interest from other Premier League teams, with Nottingham Forest and Southampton being the latest clubs in the mix. Arsenal have been connected with Wolves’ backup keeper Dan Bentley throughout the transfer window, and The Athletic has also mentioned Espanyol’s Joan Garcia as a potential option. Additionally, 34-year-old former Arsenal keeper Wojciech Szczęsny recently ended his contract with Juventus, possibly hinting at a return.
**David Raya**
Raya, who was on loan from Brentford, replaced Ramsdale four games into last season and became a key figure in Arsenal’s defense. He played a significant role in achieving the Premier League’s best defensive record and secured the Golden Glove for most clean sheets. The loan deal included a straightforward clause for a permanent transfer, which Arsenal activated this summer for £27M.
His shot-stopping last season was below expectations, allowing 2.6 more goals than anticipated, after exceeding expectations by 5.1 goals in his final Brentford season. However, Raya excels in claiming crosses and his distribution is highly regarded, which is why Mikel Arteta was eager to sign him.
*Best-case scenario:* Raya improves his shot-stopping and potentially wins another Golden Glove by stopping more shots than expected.
*Worst-case scenario:* He continues to underperform in shot-stopping and makes errors with the ball that lead to goals, similar to a few mistakes from last season.
**Aaron Ramsdale**
Ramsdale, the England international and Arsenal backup, needs to find a new club for the season, whether on loan or through a transfer. Last season, he made only six appearances, with four coming before Raya was in the team. This limited playing time is insufficient for a 26-year-old aiming to challenge Jordan Pickford for the England #1 spot. Ramsdale’s new contract, which extends to the end of the 2025-26 season and doubles his salary to £120K per week, is creating obstacles for his transfer. Few clubs can afford such high wages for a goalkeeper.
*Best-case scenario:* Ramsdale has a successful loan season, which boosts his value for the next transfer window. However, if Arsenal loans him out, it will likely include an obligation to buy. A straight loan would be less ideal from a business perspective.
A more plausible positive outcome is Arsenal negotiating a loan with an obligation to buy at a reasonable price, starting from £30M.
*Worst-case scenario:* Ramsdale remains at Arsenal, missing out on regular play, which could impact his performance and reduce his value.
