Arsenal are considering a transfer for the American goalkeeper Patrick Schulte if Aaron Ramsdale decides to leave the team after this season.
Ramsdale’s exit appears imminent as he has been replaced by David Raya in the starting lineup this year.
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Following the first four matches of the Premier League, Ramsdale has had limited playtime, appearing mainly in the FA Cup, Carabao Cup, and a non-critical Champions League match against PSV in December.
Mikel Arteta has had to play him in the league only a couple more times during games against Raya’s original team, Brentford, with varying levels of success.
With the expectation that Raya’s temporary transfer will become a permanent deal for about £30 million, Ramsdale is likely to seek a transfer to find more consistent playing time, and Arsenal might benefit financially from his sale.
Therefore, Arsenal has begun the search for a secondary goalkeeper, and reports from The Telegraph suggest they’re interested in Schulte.
Schulte has gained attention for his standout performances with Columbus Crew, attracting interest from various European clubs, including Arsenal.
The 23-year-old contributed to his team’s 2023 MLS Cup victory in his debut season and earned his first cap for the USA in a friendly against Slovenia in January.
Arsenal compares Schulte to their previous American goalkeeper, Matt Turner, who transferred to Nottingham Forest last year after a notable period in the MLS.
Ramsdale’s future, however, remains uncertain, including his potential destination and his value to Arsenal.
Ramsdale, who joined Arsenal in 2021 for £24 million after relegations with Sheffield United and Bournemouth, has two years remaining on his contract. He has let in just 99 goals in 89 games for Arsenal, securing 32 shutouts and winning the 2023 Community Shield.
He has earned four international caps so far and is expected to be part of England’s squad for Euro 2024, despite his reduced playing time.