Chelsea unlikely to pursue Aaron Ramsdale ahead of Arsenal exit decision
Chelsea are not expected to pursue a move for Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale, who could leave the Emirates Stadium this summer over his lack of minutes, 90min understands.
Ramsdale was the starting goalkeeper for Arsenal’s resurgence last season but has been dropped to the bench this year in favour of summer signing David Raya, whose loan from Brentford is expected to be made permanent at the end of the campaign.
The England international has played just once in the Premier League since early September – against Brentford as Raya was unable to face his parent side – and while he has been supportive of his teammate this season, Ramsdale accepts he cannot afford to begin next season as a reserve.
Ramsdale is expected to make a decision on his future after Euro 2024 this summer, but sources have told 90min that Chelsea are unlikely to join the race for his signature, despite reports suggesting otherwise.
Chelsea have downplayed claims of their interest in Ramsdale and remain committed to both Djordje Petrovic and Robert Sanchez. Petrovic has been in excellent form and Chelsea feel they have two strong keepers.
The Blues are satisfied with their goalkeepers given they also have 19-year-old United States international Gabriel Slonina, who is currently developing out on loan in Belgium with Eupen and will return this summer.
Chelsea’s priority is to focus their efforts on signing a new striker this summer, and a centre-back, full-back and potentially midfielder, should Conor Gallagher leave, are all seen as more urgent than another new goalkeeper at this point.
Ramsdale will have options should he choose to leave Arsenal this summer. 90min understands West Ham United have been tracking the 25-year-old even though Alphonse Areola is having a solid season. And there could be the chance to head to mainland Europe, although it is understood that Ramsdale would prefer to remain in the Premier League.
One dilemma for Ramsdale is the list of suitors for a new goalkeeper is far shorter than it was last summer, when Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur were all in the market for a new stopper.
Tottenham are delighted with Italy international Guglielmo Vicario, while United remain invested in Andre Onana despite claims they could join the race for Ramsdale’s signature.
Ramsdale does not want to leave Arsenal without a guarantee of regular minutes as he seeks to compete with Jordan Pickford for England’s starting goalkeeper berth.