OFFICIAL: Southampton complete signing of Arsenal's Aaron Ramsdale

Cameron Smith

• Updated: 30 Aug 2024 14:14 BST
• 3 min read

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Southampton have officially completed the signing of Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale.

Russell Martin’s side have paid a reported initial fee of €21.4 million for the England international, with Ramsdale signing a four-year contract at St Mary’s.

The 26-year-old had been linked with numerous Premier League clubs throughout the summer, but he has sealed a permanent move to newly-promoted Southampton after spending last season as David Raya’s back-up at Arsenal.

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Arsenal are now close to signing Bournemouth goalkeeper Neto as Ramsdale’s replacement, with a move for Joan Garcia complicated by Espanyol’s demands.

Upon confirmation of his move to Southampton, Ramsdale told the club’s website: “I’m absolutely delighted. The way the manager wants to play, the way he was when I spoke to him, he was just full of so much enthusiasm.

“I’d never met him before, but he made me feel about eight feet tall, which is just what you want.

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“Coming back down to the south coast as well for me and my family, it would be an easier transition than most, so I feel like I can hit the ground running.

“I’m looking forward to this year, just getting back to what I do best and having a big smile on my face while doing it here.”

Ramsdale has left Arsenal after making 89 appearances for the Gunners during a three-year stay at the club.

What has Russell Martin said?

Southampton boss Martin admitted: “I’m delighted. Bringing in a player like Aaron is a real statement signing for us, so I’m very grateful to ownership and the board for making it happen, especially as so many other clubs were keen to get him.

“Aaron is obviously a very talented goalkeeper, but also an impressive all-round football player, which is clearly important for us with the way we play.

“His reputation speaks for itself, he brings great experience even at what is still a relatively young age at his position and he’s a fantastic character too, who I think will be a wonderful addition for us both on the pitch and in the dressing room.”