Ramsdale suffers transfer blow as Arsenal's rival turn to £10m alternative

Aaron Ramsdale has seen his hopes of leaving Arsenal hit after Wolves abandoned their interest.

The former Sheffield United and Bournemouth goalkeeper was expected to leave the Emirates Stadium this summer. He fell behind David Raya in the pecking order last term, and remains second choice to the Spaniard after his loan was made permanent.

A number of clubs including Wolves and Southampton have been linked with moves for Ramsdale. It was suggested that Daniel Bentley and Ramsdale could be at the heart of a potential swap but that now appears unlikely.

Wolves have looked elsewhere for a new goalkeeper with Gary O’Neil keen to bolster his options between the sticks. And they have managed to strike a deal with a Premier League rival.

According to a number of reports, the Black Country outfit are closing in on a £10m deal for Crystal Palace ’s Sam Johnstone. Should that be completed, it seems highly unlikely that they will sign Ramsdale too.

The decision leaves the Arsenal star’s options even more limited. His former club Bournemouth were reportedly interested but are set to sign Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea.

When asked for an update on the situation earlier this summer, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta said: “It’s the same situation like all of the players. Everybody wants to play, have opportunities. I have to give those options, they have to earn it and there’s no difference.”

Meanwhile, ex-Arsenal goalkeeper Emi Martinez has urged Ramsdale to find a club where he would be appreciated. He said: “It’s a different position to me as Aaron signed for big money. He was the No 1 for Arsenal. I never had a chance like that.

“When you play every game in the Premier League and, then you drop to the bench with the quality that Aaron has, I think he should find a place to play where he feels loved. He is a player that England needs in their goalkeeping area. He has a great future.”

While a move to Wolves does not seem to be an option for Ramsdale any more, he could still potentially seal a late move. Southampton were linked and could revive their interest having seen a move for Feyenoord stopper Justin Bijlow collapse after a medical.

Dutch giants Ajax have also emerged as contenders for Ramsdale’s services but are yet to lodge a bid for his services. The goalkeeper, 26, still has two years left to run on his Arsenal contract.