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Arteta confirms Ramsdale's 'big reality' as Newcastle plot move for Arsenal star

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Aaron Ramsdale has struggled for regular game time this season (Image: Getty Images)
Aaron Ramsdale has struggled for regular game time this season (Image: Getty Images)

Mikel Arteta has hinted that Aaron Ramsdale could stay at Arsenal as fresh transfer interest from Newcastle comes to light.

After starting their opening four Premier League matches this season, Ramsdale has struggled for regular game time since the arrival of David Raya on loan. In fact, the 25-year-old has started just four games in six months and last featured in the 2-1 win over the Brentford - a match in which Raya was ineligible for - last month.

Having impressed during his time in north London, Raya will make his loan move permanent in the summer for £27million. That has led many to believe Ramsdale will leave, with Newcastle among those linked with a swoop for the ex-Bournemouth and Sheffield United goalkeeper.

When asked about interest from Newcastle, Arteta replied: "I'm not going to comment on those things."

Arteta was then pressed on whether Ramsdale might remain at the Emirates next season. He replied: "Suggestion? There is a big reality that Aaron is here because he is our player and has a contract."

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Ramsdale signed a new contract running until the end of the 2025/26 season last May and excelled during his first two years at the Gunners after signing from relegated Sheffield United. He joined for £24m plus add-ons and did not miss a minute of Premier League football last season.

However, his fortunes have drastically changed this season and he is now fighting to make the England squad for Euro 2024, having looked a shoo-in at one point. Ramsdale was included for their two March friendlies against Brazil and Belgium but didn't play a single minute with Jordan Pickford preferred.

"We have picked the three goalkeepers we think are the best," Southgate said last month. "It’s not ideal that Aaron’s not playing. But he showed last week, to respond to the mistake the way that he did, that he has the mental resilience to play for England. In that position on the pitch, in particular, that’s crucial."

Arteta confirms Ramsdale's 'big reality' as Newcastle plot move for Arsenal starAaron Ramsdale has had a season to forget at Arsenal (Getty)

On his return to the Arsenal side against Brentford, Ramsdale had a moment to forget. Declan Rice gave the Gunners the lead and they were in control up until Ramsdale dropped a clanger before half-time.

After receiving a pass from Gabriel, Ramsdale delayed to clear his lines, allowing Yoane Wissa to slide in and block the ball, which bounced into the net. The Arsenal players were quick to huddle around Ramsdale and give the out-of-favour shot-stopper some confidence after making the costly mistake.

Ramsdale made some excellent saves during the second half and Arteta was delighted with his response. "Really happy especially because he did exactly what he is, a person with huge personality and courage, very determined," the Arsenal boss said after the match. "Errors are part of football.

"It's how you react to it, especially for the keepers which is probably the most difficult position. He did so in an amazing way. I'm not surprised because the whole team and the whole stadium was behind him. He has earned respect and admiration. We really wanted to win for him."

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Kieran King

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