Arsenal sign goalkeeper Mat Ryan on loan from Brighton

Martin Macdonald

• Updated: 19 May 2021 15:43 BST
• 3 min read

Arsenal have made their first signing of the January transfer window as goalkeeper Mat Ryan has arrived on loan from Brighton for the rest of the season.

Following the sale of Emi Martinez to Aston Villa in the summer, manager Mikel Arteta has had to rely on Runar Alex Runarsson as the backup to first choice Bernd Leno.

However, the summer signing hasn’t impressed which has led to Arsenal dipping into the market for a new number two goalkeeper.

They have eventually settled on Ryan, who has lost his place as Brighton’s number one following a poor start to the season.

Signing for the club you grew up supporting as a kid @Arsenal

Buzzing to be beginning this new chapter and will give everything I’ve got to contribute to the first club I ever loved. pic.twitter.com/IUohEjFKVK

— Maty Ryan (@MatyRyan) January 22, 2021

Arteta said they decided on Ryan due to his experience in the Premier League. saying

“We know Mat very well through his performances with Brighton in recent seasons and he brings additional quality to our squad.

“Mat has very good Premier League experience and has played over 100 times in the league, which is something that will benefit us greatly on and off the pitch. We welcome Mat to Arsenal and look forward to working with him this season.”

Ryan’s professionalism, meanwhile, was praised by Brighton manager Graham Potter.

“We have incredible talent and competition at this club for just one position, and understandably, as Australia’s number one, Mat wants the chance of more regular opportunities,” he told the official Brighton websit.

“Mat is a pleasure to work with, a consummate professional and someone who works incredibly hard at his game. We wish him well at Arsenal and will be watching his progress there.”

Ryan has made 11 starts for the seasiders this season, conceding 19 goals.

Arsneal boss Arteta has previously suggested that the Gunners were working on a few signings in this window.