Ramsdale to Leeds: O’Rourke shares ‘big’ transfer update
Daniel Farke would see Aaron Ramsdale as a “great fit” for his Leeds United squad as they prepare to pursue a new goalkeeper this summer, sources have told Football Insider.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke stated that he is a “big fan” of Ramsdale, who looks set to be on the move from Southampton.
Saints’ already-confirmed relegation has come despite having a current England international between their sticks in Ramsdale, and the 26-year-old is set to be available for £20–£25million this summer.
Football Insider revealed that Southampton’s demotion activates a release clause in Ramsdale’s current contract at St. Mary’s, and that’s alerted Leeds to his impending availability should they win promotion.
Leeds a ‘perfect fit’ for exit-bound Aaron Ramsdale
With Leeds back at the top of the Championship following Tuesday’s 1-0 win over Middlesbrough, and the Premier League now firmly in their sights, attention is turning towards the summer transfer market.
Ramsdale being available for a cut-price fee owing to that relegation release clause, as well as bringing experience and character to Leeds’ dressing room, would make him a “real bonus” for Leeds next term.
Signing a goalkeeper to replace Illan Meslier is one of Leeds’ top priorities this summer, and Football Insider have been told Ramsdale’s reliability has made him a target for any side which wins promotion.
Ramsdale transfer race leaves Leeds as outsiders
Leeds are far from the only club keen on signing Ramsdale this summer, with West Ham looking to raid Southampton on their way down to the second-tier and seeing Ramsdale as an attainable asset.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe is also hopeful of securing a reunion with his former Bournemouth shot-stopper, and it remains to be seen if the prospect of Champions League football will turn Ramsdale’s head.
Farke’s side is strong in several positions ahead of a potential Premier League campaign, but goalkeeper is not one of them, and expect Leeds to be firmly in the hunt to sign Ramsdale if they can seal promotion.