Latest developments
- Aaron Ramsdale looks set to leave Southampton this summer.
- West Ham United are weighing up a potential move.
- Bournemouth and Newcastle United are also showing an interest.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (4.5/5): West Ham considering Ramsdale swoop
Ramsdale is likely to leave Southampton despite only joining the club from Arsenal last summer. Newcastle have been mentioned as a potential suitor, while Bournemouth have identified him as a potential alternative to Kepa Arrizabalaga.
According to The Times, West Ham are the latest club to join the race to sign the former Arsenal shot-stopper, with the Hammers believed to be weighing up a move in the summer transfer window.
Value (3.5/5): Ramsdale available for £20m
There is a belief that it would cost around £20m to sign the England international this summer, representing a reasonable figure for a first-choice goalkeeper.
However, there is a belief that the player's wages, which are more than £100,000 a week, could prove to be a stumbling block for his potential suitors.
Suitability (2.5/5): Concerns over relegation habit
The 26-year-old has a vast amount of Premier League experience, having made 176 appearances in the top flight. The shot-stopper featured in 78 Premier League matches for Arsenal, before he was allowed to depart after losing his spot to David Raya.
While he has played for a top club, there may be some concern that Ramsdale has been relegated on three separate occasions with Bournemouth, Sheffield United and Southampton.
Upgrade? (3.5/5): Fabianski replacement
Alphonse Areola is West Ham's current number one goalkeeper despite losing his place to Lukasz Fabianski in the middle of the season. The latter is set to turn 40 this month and is out of contract at the end of the season, although West Ham have the option to extend his deal by 12 months.
If Fabianski departs, Ramsdale could be a strong option to come into the club and compete with Areola for the number one spot.
Logic (3.5/5): Opportunity to stay in Premier League
For Ramsdale, he will be keen to stay in the Premier League for the 2025-26 season, especially as he wants to secure a spot in Thomas Tuchel's England squad for next year's World Cup.
West Ham will not be able to offer him European football like Newcastle can, but he may stand a better of chance of gaining regular playing time with Graham Potter's side.
Whisper+ verdict: 17.5/25
West Ham could be a good option for Ramsdale to continue his Premier League career, while the Hammers may take the chance to sign an experienced goalkeeper for a reasonable price.
