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Newcastle United 'rekindle interest in wantaway big-six goalkeeper'

By Devesh Jaganath | 01 April 2024

Newcastle 'rekindle interest in wantaway big-six goalkeeper'

Newcastle United are reportedly planning to renew their efforts to bring Arsenal outcast Aaron Ramsdale to St James' Park in the summer transfer window.

Newcastle United are reportedly planning to renew their efforts to sign Arsenal outcast Aaron Ramsdale in the upcoming summer transfer window.

The Magpies attempted to secure the services of Ramsdale in January following Nick Pope's injury, but despite the goalkeeper's interest in the move, he ultimately remained in North London.

Since then, though, Ramsdale has fallen in the pecking order under Mikel Arteta and is desperate for more consistent playing time after losing his starting position to David Raya.

Raya is currently on loan from Brentford, and it is understood that the Gunners will make his move a permanent one in the summer.

As a result, Ramsdale could be set to depart from the Emirates Stadium this summer, and according to the Daily Mail, the England international is already evaluating his options.

Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale pictured in September 2023 © Reuters

The report adds that Newcastle are likely to look to bolster their goalkeeping options in the summer and are interested in Ramsdale primarily due to his age.

Ramsdale, 25, presents a younger option compared to their current goalkeepers Martin Dubravka and Nick Pope, who are aged 35 and 32 respectively.

In addition, it is somewhat unsurprising that Howe is considering Ramsdale as an option, as the two are well-acquainted, having worked together at Bournemouth in the past.

Howe also granted the goalkeeper a second chance after he overslept and missed the bus for an EFL Cup match against Chelsea.

However, the Magpies' pursuit of Ramsdale will likely hinge on Arsenal's asking price for the goalkeeper, who cost them £30m from Sheffield United in 2021.

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe applauds fans after the match on March 16, 2024 © Reuters

Profit and Sustainability Rules have limited the Saudi Public Investment Fund, who are the majority shareholders of Newcastle United, from injecting funds into the club's finances, thus hindering their ability to spend freely in the transfer market.

As a result, significant additions to the squad may only be possible if the Magpies are able to generate additional funds, which would likely involve the sale of existing players.

Newcastle finished last season in the top four but are currently in eighth place in the Premier League standings this term, trailing fourth-placed Aston Villa by 16 points with nine games left to play.

They will return to action on Tuesday night when they take on relegation contenders Everton at St James' Park, before heading to Craven Cottage to face Fulham at the weekend.