Slavisa Jokanovic insists he is not too worried about Aaron Ramsdale’s ongoing links to Arsenal, insisting he wishes to keep his squad intact.
Arsenal’s high profile chase of goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale has been unsuccessful so far. Yet, the Premier League side remain confident of agreeing to a deal with Sheffield United before the transfer deadline. The club has been looking for a homegrown, talented, young keeper to integrate into Mikel Arteta’s squad, and Ramsdale fits the bill.
Ramsdale, who joined Sheffield United last summer, was named the club’s player of the season as the Blades suffered relegation. His performances also saw him drafted into Gareth Southgate’s England squad for the Euros as the third choice-stopper. The Blades believe his value went up, despite their failure in the Premier League.
The club demand as much as £40 million for Ramsdale, something Arsenal certainly won’t pay. However, the Gunners are seemingly ready to offer around £30 million, having seen previous proposals rejected by Sheffield United. The North London side feel positive with their latest reported offer and believe they could get their man.
The Gunners see Ramsdale as a backup to Bernd Leno, although they would promote the Blades’ star as their No.1 gradually. That could be possible as soon as next season when they might be inclined to sell the German when he just has a year left on his deal.
Realistically, it is a lot of money for a goalkeeper whose two top-flight seasons have ended in relegation but Arsenal seem intent on signing him. However, new Sheffield United manager Slavisa Jokanovic was on hand to comment on the ongoing situation with his goalkeeper, as he hoped they wouldn’t leave.
Jokanovic aims to gain promotion at the first time of asking. The Blades’ boss believes that entering the Premier League again would be more convenient with the current crop of players than without them. Arsenal remains interested in another Sheffield United star, midfielder Sander Berge, as they reportedly prepare an offer.
Goal.com published some of the quotes from Jokanovic’s recent interview with a magazine. The Blades’ boss addressed the situation surrounding Ramsdale and even Berge, suggesting he may not sell them if it were up to him. He said, “If you ask me if I will sell, no. I will be hurt if they leave my team. I understand this possibility exists, but I hope that will not happen.
“I am not worried; I am happy with them, and I trust they will stay with me, and I trust they can be happy working with me and their Sheffield United teammates.”
Considering Sheffield United got relegated recently, it would be easier to gain promotion if they hold on to their star names. However, things could get complicated for Jokanvic if those two stars leave, especially Ramsdale.
