Latest developments
- Newcastle United are interested in Southampton's Aaron Ramsdale.
- The England goalkeeper only signed for the Saints in the summer.
- The Magpies view him as Nick Pope's replacement.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (2/5): In the market for a GK
Southampton may have a leaky defence, but Newcastle are still interested in signing their goalkeeper, England international Aaron Ramsdale.
This news comes from The Sun, never the most trustworthy, but the Magpies are reportedly in the hunt for a new goalkeeper, with James Trafford another said to be on their radar.
Value (3/5): Saints will want to recoup
Signing him for an initial £18 million from Arsenal just last summer, Southampton have seen Ramsdale record their only two clean sheets despite playing just 13 of their 20 league games.
Losing him six months into a four-year deal will only be palatable if they can turn a decent profit in terms of transfer fees, meaning Newcastle will have to pay well above his £16.75 million valuation.
Suitability (3.5/5): Can he make it at the top
Many of the 26-year-old's best days were spent battling relegation with Bournemouth and Sheffield United, while when he got his big-money move to Arsenal, he was dropped in favour of David Raya.
The Toon reportedly see him as the goalkeeper who can take them to the next level, i.e. regular UEFA Champions League football, and the jury is still out as to whether Ramsdale can cut it.
Upgrade? (4/5): GK overhaul at Newcastle
Martin Dubravka is moving to Saudi Arabia this month, while the signing of Odysseas Vlachodimos was nothing more than a transfer of convenience to bypass PSR.
With Nick Pope injury-prone and turning 33 before the season ends, Newcastle need at least a couple of new goalkeepers, and despite his trouble at Arsenal, Ramsdale is a good candidate to take the number one spot immediately.
Logic (4/5): Relegation on the cards
Southampton's form makes them all but certain to go straight back down this season, and Ramsdale will have no ambitions of playing Championship football next season. Having proven himself again in a struggling side, it might already be time to jump ship.
Newcastle's goalkeeping needs are clear, though they could wait for the summer when Saints are down and a cheaper fee could be arranged.
Whisper+ verdict: 16.5/25
Ramsdale's time at St Mary's looks to be short, and we can't rule out St James' as the next destination.
