Aaron Ramsdale is reportedly holding talks over a potential move to West Ham, according to talkSPORT.
The 27-year-old goalkeeper, who only joined Southampton from Arsenal last season, is eager for an instant Premier League return following the Saints’ relegation campaign.
Ramsdale endured a horror season on the South Coast, and has earned something of a reputation for getting teams relegated. Despite that, West Ham gaffer Graham Potter is said to be keen, impressed by Ramsdale’s past stints at Arsenal, Sheffield United, and Bournemouth.
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The Hammers are on the hunt for a new No.1 following the departure of loyal servant Lukasz Fabianski who was given an excellent send-off in the final game against Ipswich Town.
Ramsdale won’t come cheap, though apparently, with Southampton demanding £20 million—the same fee they paid Arsenal less than a year ago. Ouch!
It’s hard to imagine West Ham splashing that sort of cash on a keeper whose stock has taken a hit, but Potter seems determined to find a goalkeeper who can play the sweeper-keeper role. In that respect, Ramsdale arguably offers more than current No.1 Alphonse Areola who has endured a few dodgy moments himself.
Nobody at the club is willing to comment on this particular piece of speculation. Claret & Hugh have asked our top transfer source if there is any validity in the rumour but were informed that it was unlikely the Hammers would spend £20m on any keeper.