Aaron Ramsdale, Arsenal’s goalkeeper, has reportedly decided to join Newcastle this summer. The England international was demoted to second choice in North London with the loan arrival of Brentford’s David Raya, a transaction that is anticipated to be permanent with a £27 million option attached.

Ramsdale signed a new contract with Arsenal last summer, but a paucity of minutes has altered the course of his future. Ramsdale’s father had previously spoken of his ‘lost his smile’ since the transition, and an exit was always on the cards.

Speaking on The Highbury Squad, Sky Sports reporter James Green detailed what he had been told about the issue and the proposed agreement with Newcastle. “I understand that Aaron Ramsdale has agreed to join Newcastle in the summer,” Green stated.

“That came directly from someone chatting with someone I know who is connected to his agent, and he says it’s done, the deal is happening.

“To be honest, I doubt many Arsenal fans will be surprised by this. I believe the writing was on the wall; he could not sit there and be a backup goalie; he was far too talented for that.

“He was always going to move on to pastures new, and I read a few reports and other journalists talking about Raya’s backup this week and what goalkeepers would come in. Jason Steele from Brighton was mentioned, and I believe he would make an excellent number two.

The 26-year-old wanted to advance in his career, and a Newcastle team that could play Europa League or Europa Conference League games next season, depending on final day results and FA Cup results, would undoubtedly help him do so.

It would also benefit his England career, since Gareth Southgate is due to reveal his European Championship squad soon. The Three Lions’ head coach has stated that Ramsdale must begin playing in order to be selected, although he has remained on the squad while serving as Raya’s backup.

A transfer to the northeast would pit him against fellow England international Nick Pope. The 32-year-old has two years left on his contract, but he has suffered from recurring injury issues, which could explain why the Magpies want to sign the Arsenal stopper.

There has been no news on an agreement between the teams, as it appears to be on the player’s side. After signing for £24 million with add-ons in 2022, Arsenal will seek to profit from any prospective sale.