Arsenal have made their first offer to sign Ajax goalkeeper Tommy Setford, who could likely join their academy ranks.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal have made an opening proposal to sign Ajax’s teenage goalkeeper, Tommy Setford. The 18-year-old England youth international has impressed within the Dutch giants’ youth ranks and will be considered to join the Gunners’ academy sides, and he is keen on the move.
Arsenal make Tommy Setford’s bid
Arsenal are in the market for a third-choice goalkeeper on priority and could be on the move for a new deputy should they decide to sell Aaron Ramsdale. For the former, they have already seen a bid rejected by Wolves for Dan Bentley, who happens to be a former academy player at the North London club.
However, they have also revamped the structure of their academy and are entering this summer window with a separate budget for their youth sides. Hence, the Gunners are ramping up recruitment for their youth ranks and have eyes on several players, including Southampton’s Harrison Miles, among other emerging young stars at multiple academies.
The North Londoners are also looking for a new goalkeeper for their academy and have made an opening offer for Ajax’s Tommy Setford. The 18-year-old England youth international has impressed within the ranks of the Dutch giants and has his head turned by Arsenal’s interest. There is a big chance of Ajax selling him now, as he only has a year left on his contract.
As per Dutch journalist Mike Verweij, Arsenal’s first proposal was for £350,000 plus bonuses, and they are awaiting Ajax’s decision on the bid. Should they accept the offer, Setford will not come in as their third choice but as part of the academy setup and likely play between the Under-21s and Under-18s teams.
Arsenal forging a strong summer plan
Apart from the academy ranks, where Arsenal have become extremely active in the window, they are also steadily executing their plans for first-team recruitment. Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna is a big target, and the move is considered very close to completion.
After that, they will likely focus on bringing in a new midfielder, while some key sales are expected to happen. Reiss Nelson has West Ham United’s interest, while Fulham are keen on Emile Smith Rowe, and Marseille are considering a move for Eddie Nketiah, among others. Meanwhile, Albert Sambi Lokonga is joining Sevilla, while Nuno Tavares is close to landing at Lazio.
