Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale has completed a permanent transfer to Southampton, bringing an end to his two-year stint with the Gunners.
The England international, who joined from Sheffield United in 2021, had been the first-choice goalkeeper but lost his spot to David Raya last season.
Raya’s impressive form, culminating in the Premier League’s Golden Glove award,
solidified his position as the club’s No.1, limiting Ramsdale to just 11 appearances across all competitions.
This reduced playing time prompted Ramsdale’s decision to seek a new opportunity, leading to his £25m move to Southampton.
Ramsdale’s departure marks the end of an era at Arsenal, where he had established himself as a key player before Raya’s emergence.
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The 25-year-old now looks to revive his career at Southampton, seeking regular playing time and a return to top form.
Ramsdale said:
“I’m absolutely delighted. The way the manager wants to play, the way he was when I spoke to him, he was just full of so much enthusiasm.
I’d never met him before, but he made me feel about eight feet tall, which is just what you want.
“Coming back down to the south coast as well for me and my family, it would be an easier transition than most, so I feel like I can hit the ground running.
“I’m looking forward to this year, just getting back to what I do best and having a big smile on my face while doing it here.”
Saints have paid £18m up front for the 26-year-old, with a further £1m to come should they manage to avoid relegation. The deal could rise to as high as £25m should the criteria for additional add-ons be met.
Arsenal are expected to move for Bournemouth’s Neto as a replacement, after failing with a move for Espanyol’s highly-rated goalkeeper Joan Garcia.
