At a Glance:
Signing players from relegated teams is a great way to get quality players for cheap
Arsenal have had previous success with this method in Aaron Ramsdale a few years ago
One relegated player is already linked with Arsenal
While Arsenal will be looking for some big-name signings this summer, purchasing players from relegated clubs tends to be a cheaper way of landing underrated players for cut-fee prices.
The last example of the Gunners signing a player from a relegated club was Aaron Ramsdale, who became Arsenal’s starting goalkeeper in the 2021/22 season after signing from Sheffield United, who went down to the Championship while Ramsdale was playing for them.
Ramsdale ultimately did not have a long career with Arsenal, but he was a signing that signified the North London club’s transformation into title contenders, and while he was eventually replaced by David Raya, the now 28-year-old was an important player while he was with the club.
Arsenal could look at doing the same thing this summer, from any of the three relegated clubs in West Ham, Burnley, or Wolves—and it looks like one relegated player is already linked with a move to the Emirates.
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Mateus Fernandes – West Ham
It is not always realistic to expect the reigning Premier League champions to look at relegated players for potential transfers to make, but Mateus Fernandes has been a name linked to Arsenal in recent weeks.
The West Ham midfielder has impressed during his singular season for the Hammers after joining them from Southampton last year, having made 36 appearances in the Premier League, contributing three goals and four assists and earning himself a 7.24 rating as per FotMob.
Fernandes’ 110 accurate long balls over the course of the season ranks him in the 96th percentile of all Premier League players—which is a trait Arsenal could benefit from if they are wanting to play more expansive football next season.
Maxime Esteve – Burnley
While Arsenal perhaps do not need another central defender given that the quality level there is so high, injuries to the backline have been all too common in recent times.
Maxime Esteve could be a cheap addition as fourth- or fifth-choice defender, as the Frenchman has spent one-and-a-half seasons in the Premier League with Burnley where he has looked solid, leading the centre-back to having a market value of almost £20 million.
Mateus Mane – Wolves
Perhaps the player with the most potential on this list, Mateus Mane has become a sensation at Wolves despite their dismal showing in the Premier League this year, with three goals in 27 league games while still only being 18 years of age.
Able to play as a winger or an attacking midfielder, his positional versatility is something tha Mikel Arteta enjoys in a player and his ability as a player who loves carrying the ball should get Arsenal fans excited too. At an asking price of around £50 million, the Portuguese youngster will not come cheap, but it could be a move Arsenal are tempted by.