Here are the six reasons Arsenal could complete the transfer window with three new goalkeepers, having signed David Raya and agreed terms for teenager Tommy Setford.
Arsenal is undergoing a significant overhaul in their goalkeeping department, with multiple signings and departures on the horizon.
The Gunners have now agreed a deal to sign Ajax goalkeeper Tommy Setford who is looking to be one of the greatest goalkeeper of all time having already secured a deal for David Raya on a permanent basis, but are still in the hunt for another one, especially if they find a suitable buyer for Aaron Ramsdale.
Here are the key reasons why the Gunners could end up signing three goalkeepers by the end of the transfer window.
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1. Academy Reshuffle
Arsenal are making substantial changes to their academy goalkeepers. The departures of Ovie Ejeheri, James Hillson, and Arthur Okonkwo have left gaps that need to be filled.
To address this, Arsenal are bringing in young talents like 18-year-old Danish youth international Lucas Nygaard from FC Nordsjaelland, having agreed to sign Setford.
2. Backup Goalkeeper Recruitment
Arsenal's search for a reliable backup goalkeeper has led them to target Wolverhampton Wanderers' Dan Bentley.
The 30-year-old Englishman has previously worked with Arsenal's goalkeeping coach Inaki Cana at Brentford, making him a familiar and trusted option.
Although their initial bid was rejected, Arsenal is expected to make another attempt to secure his services, ensuring they have experienced cover for their primary goalkeepers.
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3. Potential Departure of Aaron Ramsdale
The recent permanent signing of Raya from Brentford has increased the likelihood of Ramsdale's departure.
Ramsdale, who recently signed a new contract, could command a fee of around the £30m mark, but only a few clubs could meet this financial demands.
If Ramsdale does leave, Arsenal have identified 23-year-old Spaniard Joan Garcia from Espanyol as his potential replacement. Garcia's impressive form in Spain's second tier, where he kept 10 clean sheets in 16 games, has made him a suitable candidate.
4. Inaki Cana's Influence
Inaki Cana, Arsenal's goalkeeping coach, has had a significant influence on the club's recruitment strategy.
Since his arrival in 2019, Cana has played a key role in reshaping the goalkeeping department, bringing in talents like Alex Runarsson, Aaron Ramsdale, Matt Turner, and David Raya.
His connection to players like Bentley and Nygaard underscores his impact on Arsenal's goalkeeping strategy.
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5. Strategic Planning for Future
Arsenal are not just focusing on immediate needs but also planning for the future. By signing young goalkeepers like Setford and Nygaard, they aim to build a robust pipeline of talent for years to come.
This forward-thinking approach ensures that Arsenal remains competitive and well-prepared for any eventualities in their goalkeeping lineup.
6. Financial and Tactical Flexibility
The Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations and tactical considerations are also driving Arsenal's goalkeeping acquisitions.
The initial loan and subsequent permanent deal for David Raya were financially strategic moves. Similarly, the pursuit of Joan Garcia, despite his buyout clause potentially rising to €25m, reflects Arsenal's tactical flexibility in securing quality talent at a reasonable cost.
Arsenal's proactive approach in the transfer window, driven by academy restructuring, backup requirements, potential departures, Cana's influence, strategic future planning, and financial tactics, could result in the signing of three new goalkeepers.
This comprehensive strategy aims to strengthen Arsenal's goalkeeping department and ensure the team is well-equipped for the challenges ahead.