Arsenal
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Levante are eyeing Arsenal goalkeeper Karl Hein for a loan move ahead of the 2025/26 season, but the Gunners are pushing for a permanent transfer valued between £3 million and £5 million, according to James McNicholas ofThe Athletic.
The 23-year-old Estonian international, who joined Arsenal from Nõmme United in 2018, enhanced his reputation during a loan spell at Real Valladolid last season. Hein made 31 appearances despite the club’s relegation, earning plaudits for his performances including a standout display against Real Madrid that reportedly caught the attention of club president Florentino Pérez.
Levante view Hein as a key target to strengthen their goalkeeping department as they push for promotion from La Liga 2. However, Arsenal’s preference for a permanent sale could complicate negotiations, given the Spanish club’s financial limitations.
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The Gunners’ stance is part of their broader squad planning under manager Mikel Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta. With David Raya established as first-choice and Kepa Arrizabalaga providing cover, alongside highly rated prospect Tommy Setford, Hein has been deemed surplus to requirements.
Arsenal goalkeeper Karl Hein
Arsenal goalkeeper Karl Hein (Image credit: Getty Images)
Arsenal are keen to raise funds and free up a non-homegrown squad spot, with other players such as Fábio Vieira, Reiss Nelson, and Oleksandr Zinchenko also available for transfer before the September 1 deadline.
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Hein, who has earned 39 caps for Estonia but made just one senior appearance for Arsenal, a 3-1 EFL Cup defeat to Brighton in 2022, remains determined to secure regular first-team football to maintain his international status. While Levante lead the race, Championship sides including Preston North End, Queens Park Rangers, and Portsmouth have also expressed interest.
With Hein under contract until 2026, Arsenal are standing firm on their £3–5 million valuation. Whether Levante can meet that demand or persuade the Gunners to sanction a loan deal later in the window remains to be seen.
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