Arsenal are set for a busy summer transfer window and amongst other more pressing matters, they have a bit to sort out between the sticks.
According to a report by Mirror Football writer John Cross, Arsenal are interested in Feyenoord goalkeeper Justin Bijlow. Gunners boss Mikel Arteta is looking for a new No.2 keeper, with Aaron Ramsdale expected to leave the club this summer. Bijlow, 26, is on Arsenal’s shortlist, and the club will decide whether to pursue him in the coming days.
Netherlands international Bijlow was on Manchester United’s radar last summer, but they were deterred by the £22million asking price. Now, Bijlow might be available for around £10million, as he has two years left on his contract and has faced a couple of injury setbacks. Although he is no longer the Dutch No.1, he is still highly regarded.
Liverpool boss Arne Slot is also an admirer of Bijlow, but there is a sense that he may have other priorities and may avoid signing a Dutch player to prevent being pigeon-holed in that market.
In other Arsenal news, the club is set to sign David Raya permanently from Brentford for around £27million after his successful season-long loan. Raya, who won the Premier League’s Golden Glove award for most clean sheets, has established himself as Arsenal’s No.1.
Newcastle and Chelsea are monitoring Ramsdale’s situation, with his value expected to have increased after his time at Arsenal, where he was signed for £24million. Arsenal have also allowed Arthur Okonkwo to leave on a free transfer, while Karl Hein looks set to be the No.3 keeper.
Bijlow would be a perfect fit as a back-up goalkeeper for the Gunners as he is accustomed to the style of football that Arteta desires.