'Big reality' - Newcastle United transfer plan dealt blow as Premier League rival plays down move

Mikel Arteta has revealed there is a “big reality” that Aaron Ramdale will be an Arsenal player next season despite links with Newcastle United.

Reports have linked the Magpies with a £30million move for the forgotten goalkeeper. Last summer, Arteta caused controversy by brutally axing Ramsdale just four games into the Premier League campaign.

That is despite the 25-year-old starring for Arsenal during their title challenge last year. The Spaniard signed David Raya on loan from Brentford, with that deal expected to become permanent this summer.

Initially, Arteta played down the move, insisting he needed “two quality players” per position. Gunners fans were torn on whether this was the right call as Raya got off to an unconvincing start at the Emirates.

But Arteta has been proven right in recent weeks - signalling the possible end of Ramsdale’s Arsenal career. Raya was the hero in the Champions League penalty shoot-out win over Porto just days after Ramsdale’s fumble almost cost the Gunners against Brentford.

Comments from his dad, Nick, in November on an Arsenal podcast also hint at where his future intentions lie. Newcastle are one of several top-flight clubs reportedly keeping tabs on the situation.

Goalkeeper has proven a conundrum for Eddie Howe this season since Nick Pope’s shoulder injury earlier in the campaign. Martin Dubravka has shipped in a staggering 34 goals from 16 league games, with Loris Karius also conceding four when called upon.

Ramsdale has experience at a big club and with England and seems open to a summer switch. However, Arteta remained coy following the Gunners’ 2-0 win over Luton Town last night.

“I'm not going to comment on those things,” he said when asked about Ramsdale leaving. “Suggestion? There is a big reality that Aaron is here (at Arsenal next season) because he is our player and has a contract.”