‘Aaron Ramsdale to Newcastle claim made as transfer search intensifies’
Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United have set their sights on a move for Southampton goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale.
The Magpies have missed out on Burnley’s James Trafford, who is set to join Manchester City after excelling in the Championship for the Clarets last term.
But Howe is still keen on bolstering his goalkeeping ranks, while Ramsdale has retained a strong reputation despite suffering relegation with Southampton.
The 27-year-old maintained just three clean sheets in 30 Premier League appearances for the Saints last season, but previously impressed between the sticks for his former club Arsenal.
Ramsdale told joining Newcastle would be a good move for him
Newcastle have largely enjoyed the services of Nick Pope, who helped them claim Carabao Cup glory last season.
However, Howe is looking to strengthen his goalkeeping options as the North East club approach a Champions League campaign.
Speaking live on talkSPORT [29 July] amid Newcastle’s interest in Ramsdale, Dean Saunders said: “I think he’s been unlucky.
“He was doing well at Arsenal, and Arteta, brave move, put the other keeper in from Brentford, (David Raya) who’s turned out to be really good.
“Then he’s gone to Southampton and got peppered for six months from all angles, playing out from the back.
“So a good move for him would be Newcastle United.”
Howe must complete Ramsdale swoop
Football Insider verdict
While Newcastle have signed Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest, the story of their transfer window has been one of disappointment.
| Aaron Ramsdale stats | Premier League 2024/25 |
| Appearances | 30 |
| Saves | 125 |
| Clean sheets | 3 |
Most worryingly for Howe, Football Insider exclusively revealed that Liverpool are increasingly confident of signing Alexander Isak, who did not travel to Singapore with the Magpies squad for pre-season duties, amid interest from the reigning Premier League champions.
Meanwhile, Newcastle have missed out on prominent transfer targets such as Trafford, Liverpool’s new boy Hugo Ekitike, and Manchester United’s Bryan Mbeumo, who shone for Brentford last term.
But Howe can change the narrative surrounding the North East side’s transfer window by signing Ramsdale from Southampton.
The Saints goalkeeper can compete with Pope for a starting 11 spot at Newcastle next season, while he could also be seen as the 33-year-old’s long-term replacement.
As alluded to by Saunders, moving to St James’ Park would be a good move for the former Arsenal man, who endured a tough season with the Saints.