CHELSEA are reportedly planning a shock transfer move for out-of-favour Arsenal keeper Aaron Ramsdale, according to reports.
The England international goalkeeper, 25, played a key role for the Gunners last season as they narrowly missed out to Manchester City for the Premier League title.
1Chelsea are planning a swoop for Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron RamsdaleCredit: Rex
However, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta surprisingly brought in David Raya from Brentford on loan to challenge him for the No.1 spot during the summer.
Despite Ramsdale starting the campaign as first-choice, the Spaniard has now become Arteta’s preferred choice between the sticks.
But the 28-year-old has endured some difficult moments with his latest coming when he was caught out by Mykhailo Mudryk in the 2-2 draw at Chelsea on Saturday.
The Blues are also suffering goalkeeping problems of their own despite bringing in Roberto Sanchez from Brighton.
His blunder allowed Declan Rice to kickstart Arsenal’s comeback from two down and now manager Mauricio Pochettino allegedly wants an upgrade.
Journalist Ben Jacobs says that Chelsea hope to take advantage of Ramsdale’s situation across the capital and sign the ex-Bournemouth ace.
The goalie, who missed the weekend’s London derby as his wife Georgina gave birth to their first child, has become a regular in Gareth Southgate’s England squad.
But he knows he needs to be playing consistently to earn a place on the plane to Germany for Euro 2024 and challenge Jordan Pickford.
However, there could be a number of hurdles to overcome for Chelsea in order to get his signature.
Arteta would firstly no doubt be reluctant to sell to a rival and he may also have plans to restore Ramsdale to his starting line-up.
Reports first emerged of Chelsea’s interest at the start of September.
But they are not the only club interested in the ex-Sheffield United man.
Bayern Munich are also understood to be monitoring Ramsdale’s situation – with his contract running until 2026.