Arsenal wantaway star handed transfer lifeline as Wolves open talks over a potential move - Reports

Wolverhampton Wanderers have initiated contact with Arsenal over a potential move for Aaron Ramsdale this summer, according to reports. Wolves boss Gary O'Neil is understood to be a huge fan of the 26-year-old.

Ramsdale moved to the Emirates in the summer of 2021 from Sheffield United. The England international went on to establish himself as Mikel Arteta's first-choice goalkeeper. He played an instrumental role in Arsenal's title charge during the 2022-23 campaign, playing every single minute of Premier League action that term.

The Gunners then signed David Raya on loan last summer from Brentford. While Ramsdale retained his place initially, the English shot-stopper soon fell behind as Arteta preferred Raya over him.

Ramsdale made just 11 appearances across all competitions for the north Londoners last season. With the club locking down Raya on a permanent deal this summer, it seems clear that Ramsdale is no longer part of Arteta's plans.

The England international has been the subject of interest from various Premier League clubs and other outfits in Europe, such as Ajax. According to TEAMtalk, the Dutch outfit have enquired about a potential loan move.

Arsenal, however, prefer to offload him permanently this summer. The outlet claims that Wolves have approached the Gunners but are offering a loan deal as well. Whether the Arsenal hierarchy are willing to change their minds remains to be seen.

Ramsdale's contract runs until June 2026, although it includes an option to extend a further year.

"We don't need a No.9" - Rio Ferdinand reveals Declan Rice's comments about Arsenal star

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has revealed how Declan Rice and the Arsenal squad feel about Kai Havertz.

The Gunners signed Havertz from Chelsea last summer for a reported £65 million fee. While he received criticism last season for some of his performances and the price tag he came with, the German played a key role in Arteta's side. He contributed 14 goals and seven assists in 51 appearances across all competitions.

With Arsenal failing to defeat Manchester City in the title race again last season, many have called for the signing of a traditional, prolific striker. However, Ferdinand has claimed that those in the Gunners' dressing room feel differently.

Speaking about a conversation he had with Declan Rice, Ferdinand said on his YouTube channel (via The Mirror):

"Do you know what, I spoke to Declan Rice the other day, and he spoke about Havertz in such glowing terms. Like 'We don't need a No.9, Havertz is our guy.' The confidence he exuded about Havertz... I was like, 'I didn't know you guys felt like that about him'."