David Seaman urges Aaron Ramsdale to snub a January transfer and fight for his place at Arsenal, suggesting he still has a chance here.
The Aaron Ramsdale situation could be resolved in January if all parties wanted to part ways. In the 25-year-old’s case, he has a lot at stake, and the arrival of David Raya in the summer has seen him become the second choice under Mikel Arteta.
In truth, there’s not much difference between the two stoppers. Still, Raya may have the edge in certain areas, which made Arteta decide to name the Spaniard his new No.1. With the Euros approaching. Ramsdale’s place in the squad could come under threat owing to a lack of minutes, and speculation pointed towards the 25-year-old considering an exit.
Newcastle United remain interested, but any move in January may appear difficult owing to financial restrictions. The Magpies lost Nick Pope to a long-term injury, which potentially boosts Ramsdale’s chances of making it to the England squad.
Then there are Chelsea, who were keen, but as things stand, they are not in the running to sign the 25-year-old from Arsenal. Arteta, for his part, does not want Ramsdale to leave in January, with the Gunners ready to block any move unless there’s an exceptional offer on the table.
Taking into account the FFP-related problems at many of those interested clubs, Ramsdale might only move on loan with a view to a permanent transfer in the summer. Hence, the chances of Arsenal accepting those terms are low, meaning the 25-year-old could reluctantly stay at the Emirates until the summer.
Arsenal legend David Seaman has now urged Ramsdale to fight for his place and snub any idea of a transfer away from the club in January. The former England international’s comments appeared on the Mirror via TalkSport, where he insisted the 25-year-old still has a big chance to reclaim his place as Arsenal’s No.1.
Seaman said, “No, I don’t want him to leave the club at all.” “Raya has come in, and now we’re seeing you know why he’s in there because, with his feet, he’s brilliant.
“It’s still 50-50 for me and I’m happy that we’ve got two really good quality goalkeepers at the club. But the main factor that you’ve got to do is make sure that whoever’s not in is happy. Ramsdale’s also got England to look after as well.”
“He’s England’s No 2, he’s pushing for the Euros, so he needs to play. But, for me, he doesn’t leave in January. Come the end of the season, let’s see what happens.”
“I want Aaron with us. I am very happy to have two very, very good goalkeepers and Aaron is staying with us… He’s willing to play. Like any player, he wants to play for Arsenal.”
Seaman did make some sense when suggesting Ramsdale still has a chance to reclaim his place. Raya hasn’t been convincing at all since taking over as No.1. There have been plenty of sloppy moments for the Spaniard, and if he keeps producing more of those, then Ramsdale could force his way back.
For now, things are a bit speculative about the 25-year-old’s future at Arsenal. There are chances of a departure, but equally, the club might look to keep him as they might then have to find a replacement in an already tight-looking January market.