Goalkeeper Ramsdale Joins Southampton From Arsenal On Four-Year Deal

The Saints have paid an initial £18m for the England goalkeeper, with a further £7m in potential add-ons.

Ramsdale has agreed a four-year contract with the option for a further year after losing his place at the Emirates Stadium to David Raya.

The 26-year-old joined Arsenal from Sheffield United in the summer of 2021 and made 89 appearances for the Gunners.

Discussing his move, former Bournemouth keeper Ramsdale told Southampton's media channels: "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.

"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."

Southampton manager Russell Martin added: "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."

Ramsdale could make his debut against Brentford this weekend.