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Mikel Arteta has stated that Karl Hein could leave Arsenal on loan this summer. The goalkeeper recently impressed in his team's 1-1 (5-4 on pens) pre-season friendly win against Bournemouth in the USA, where he saved two spot-kicks in the shootout.
After his team's win against the Cherries on Wednesday (24 July), Arteta was asked to elaborate on the future of the 22-year-old goalkeeper. The Spaniard said (via the Evening Standard):
"That’s a conversation that we are having at the moment. Obviously, David and Aaron are away at the moment and we’re really short in the position. We want to develop our players, especially a player like Karl with a big potential and a big future ahead of him. He needs to play games, so we’re going to explore that option as well."
Hein joined the Gunners in 2018 but hasn't made a single league appearance for them so far. His only senior game for Arsenal came all the way back in Nov. 2022, when he featured in his team's 3-1 third-round loss to Brighton & Hove Albion.
It doesn't look like Hein will get any meaningful minutes in an Arsenal shirt anytime soon, with David Raya and Aaron Ramsdale vying for a starting berth. Although the latter has been linked with an exit, Arteta's team have strengthened their goalkeeping depth with the signings of Lucas Nygaard and Tommy Setford (both 18).
Karl Hein recently signed a new contract at Arsenal
Karl Hein penned a new contract at Arsenal just last month. His previous deal was due to expire at the end of the 2023-24 campaign but he has extended his stay in north London beyond this summer.
The duration of the contract hasn't been officially specified, but given Arsenal are open to loaning him out, his deal could extend beyond the upcoming season. Speaking on his new deal at the club, he said in June (via BBC):
"I'm delighted to extend my contract and continue my journey in this amazing club after six years. Hopefully, there will be even more good memories and successes for the club."
Arteta too gave his opinion on the Estonian's new deal. He said:
"Karl has continued to impress us with his attitude and commitment to getting better every day. We value being part of his continued development and I want to congratulate him on earning a new deal with the club."
Hein may not be getting playing time with the senior team at Arsenal but he has already racked up 30 caps for Estonia's national team. He has also been loaned out once before when he joined Reading in January 2022, but that spell ended within two months after he made just five appearances for them.
