New bid 'being prepared' as Southampton join Wolves in race for Arsenal star

The newly-promoted Saints are preparing a loan bid, eager to get ahead of Wolves in the battle to acquire the services of the Gunners’ backup goalkeeper.

Sky Sports reports Southampton are planning on sending an official proposal to Arsenal for Ramsdale. Russell Martin’s side must move quickly as Wolves lodged a season-long loan bid earlier this week, including a £25 million option to buy.

The offer from Gary O’Neil’s side included an obligation clause that will be activated if Ramsdale were to make a certain number of Premier League appearances over the course of the season.

It awaits to be seen which club the 26-year-old would prefer to join but he wants to leave the Emirates Stadium for increased game time. Sky Sports states Arsenal would prefer to sell Ramsdale permanently but are open to loaning him out as long as an obligation to buy is included.

A current England international as a backup to Everton’s Jordan Pickford, Ramsdale has been out of sorts at Arsenal over the past season or so. David Raya, signed from Brentford for around £30 million, has been manager Mikel Arteta’s preference between the sticks.

Ramsdale, who joined Arsenal from Sheffield United for £24 million in 2021, is keen to become a regular starter elsewhere. His first two seasons at the Emirates Stadium were a great success as he conceded just 82 goals in 72 Premier League matches. Last season was a disaster, though, as he featured just six times in the English top flight.

Ajax could spoil Wolves and Southampton’s party

Both Wolves and Southampton could face competition from Ajax. The Dutch Eredivisie giants reportedly saw a £24 million bid rejected for Ramsdale earlier this month.

It awaits to be seen if Ajax are still keen on signing the Arsenal glovesman or whether another bid is planned. If they are, Wolves and Southampton could have to try hard to convince Ramsdale.