Arsenal goalkeeper set to join La Liga club on season-long loan | OneFootball

Arsenal goalkeeper Karl Hein is set to swap north London for Spain after agreeing a loan move to La Liga club Real Valladolid, according to The Athletic.

The Estonian international had been in limbo over his future at the Emirates Stadium, with his contract set to expire this summer.

However, the Gunners managed to convince the 22-year-old to extend his stay in exchange for a guaranteed loan move.

Hein impressed during Arsenal’s pre-season tour of the United States, but with the return of first-choice keepers Aaron Ramsdale and David Raya, his game time was set to be limited.

A move to League One club Charlton Athletic appeared to be on the cards, but a late swoop from Valladolid scuppered their hopes of signing him.

The La Liga outfit, owned by Brazilian legend Ronaldo, have a strong relationship with Arsenal sporting director Edu. This played a key role in securing the deal.

Valladolid will cover the entirety of Hein’s wages, providing the young goalkeeper with a valuable opportunity to gain experience in one of Europe’s top leagues.

Hein’s exit will be the latest in a series of departures as the Gunners look to streamline their squad ahead of the 2024/25 season.

Emile Smith Rowe has already completed a £34 million move to Fulham, while Nuno Tavares and Albert Sambi Lokonga have left on loan deals.

The club have also released several other players including Mohamed Elneny, Cedric Soares and Arthur Okonkwo.

Further exits are expected to follow, with Kieran Tierney, Reiss Nelson and Eddie Nketiah all attracting interest from other clubs.

Olympique Marseille are keen on Nketiah, while Nelson has admirers at both West Ham United and newly promoted Leicester City.

The situation surrounding Ramsdale is also uncertain. The England international has fallen behind Raya in the pecking order and is keen to secure a move away.

If Ramsdale leaves, Arsenal would be forced to enter the market for a new back-up goalkeeper.

The Gunners have already made an offer for Wolverhampton Wanderers keeper Dan Bentley but are yet to follow up with a second bid.