‘Let him go’ - Premier League goalkeeper urged to leave in major boost for Newcastle United transfer plans

Former Premier League goalkeeper Brad Friedel believes Aaron Ramsdale is “too good” to be sitting on the Arsenal bench.

Newcastle United are reportedly weighing up a £30million move for the England international this summer. Eddie Howe has faced problems between the sticks in 2023-24, with Nick Pope ruled out since December due to a shoulder injury.

Martin Dubravka has been called upon but that has resulted in the Magpies conceding 34 goals in 18 Premier League games. Injuries to other positions means signing a new goalkeeper is not the top priority but would be a preference at St James’ Park.

As for Arsenal, they controversially shunned Ramsdale at the start of the season. Gunners boss Mikel Arteta signed David Raya on a season-long loan - expected to become permanent in July.

Ramsdale has only started the two Brentford games Raya was ineligible for since his arrival and appears likely to move on. Ex-Blackburn Rovers and Tottenham Hotspur goalie Friedel urged Arsenal to let Ramsdale go.

“I think the stats back Mikel Arteta’s decision. I mean, it’s close. We’re talking about two fantastic goalkeepers,’ Friedel told Sky Sports. “I think when you look at the stats, and they’re non-subjective stats so it’s not just about who we like better, the biggest difference is David Raya’s shot-preventing value.

“It’s remarkable how quick his feet are when he’s coming out for crosses or sweeping up. That really separated him from Aaron Ramsdale and with the way Arsenal play that might be the tipping point of why they prefer Raya. 

“Listen, there’s going to come a time when they are going to have to let Ramsdale go. If Raya is the long-term No.1, they’ll have to let Ramsdale go. I think the stats back Arsenal’s faith in Raya and that’s fine, but Ramsdale is too good to be sitting on the bench.

“He should be playing somewhere and I’m sure he’ll be able to find a place to go. They’re two very, very talented goalkeepers.”