Knocked Out At Arsenal, Goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale Joins Southampton

New Southampton goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale came with his family when signing a contract. (X/@SouthamptonFC)

JAKARTA - Knocked out at Arsenal and didn't want to linger on the bench, goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale decided to leave. Ramsdale chose to join Southampton which gave him the opportunity to play regularly.

Ramsdale did not become the first goalkeeper after Arsenal borrowed David Raya from Brentford. Despite being a loan goalkeeper, Raya immediately took Ramsdale's position, which was previously the first choice under the bar.

Since Raya's arrival to the Emirates, manager Mikel Arteta has relied more on the Spanish national team goalkeeper and immediately backed Ramsdale up. Just as a cover for the loan goalkeeper, Ramsdale also considered his future at Arsenal.

Although Arteta was reluctant to release the 26-year-old goalkeeper, Ramsdale insisted on leaving Arsenal. Moreover, he has been targeted by a number of English Premier League clubs, including Wolverhampton Wanderers. But Southampton finally got Ramsdale.

Soton actually only wanted to borrow the goalkeeper who had only defended the England national team five times. It's just that the Gunners refused a loan offer. Soton finally showed the seriousness of bringing Ramsdale. Moreover, they failed to bring in Feyennoord goalkeeper Justin Bijlow due to health problems.

The club from the southern coast of England also proposed a price of 18 million for Ramsdale's transfer. Through quite tough negotiations, the two clubs finally agreed on 18 million plus an appearance or add-ons bonus of 7 million.

Thus, The Saint spent a total of 25 million pounds on Ramsdale's purchases who participated in Euro 2024 even though they were not played.

Ramsdale, who was awarded a four-year contract, revealed that he didn't just want to stand under the bar on a regular basis, but manager Russell Martin successfully persuaded him to move.

"I'm very happy to be joining. How the manager explained about the team's game and when he talked to me. He was so enthusiastic. In fact, I've never met him before. But he impressed me and I feel so appreciated," Ramsdale was quoted as saying by The Sun.

"Back to the South Coast it was great fun for me and my family. I'm sure it's not difficult to make adjustments here. And, I'm ready to give my best. I'll play with a big smile here," he said again.

Martin himself was satisfied with the club signing Ramsdale. His presence is claimed to be able to improve the Soton defense sector which has always lost in the first two Premier League matches.

"I am happy that the club owners and the council have realized this plan. Moreover, many clubs want him. Aaron is a talented goalkeeper. He also shows as a versatile goalkeeper. This is important when you look at how we play," said Martin.

Ramsdale will work hard to lift the team's performance. The reason is, Soton is still struggling at the bottom. Last season, Soton was also almost relegated and had to play-offs in order to stay in the Premier League.