Arsenal goalkeeper edges closer to summer transfer

The performance Arsenal put out against Fulham was remarkably flat. The midfield was slow and ponderous, the attack was misfiring and the defense struggled for composure throughout. One bright spark, however, was the performance of Mat Ryan.

The Australian keeper had another solid outing as he deputized for Bernd Leno. Always safely second-choice, Ryan has been dependable since his January move in his two outings to date. He has charmed fans with his positive attitude, secure performances and experience. He has apparently also charmed the higher ups at the club.

Football Insider reports that Arsenal has begun negotiations with Brighton over a permanent move for Ryan with the Gunners aiming to have the deal wrapped up soon. Aiding them is the fact that Ryan will have only one year remaining on his contract in the summer and, as such, could be available for a bargain price.

Mikel Arteta has explained his view on the keeper in a press conference before the Fulham game.

Arsenal goalkeeper Mat Ryan edges closer to permanent summer transfer after impressing in brief loan spell

The manager made his feelings clear on why Ryan was starting, saying that he “trains like a beast, he’s been really positive around the place, he’s been doing very well and he deserves the chance.” It is clear that the manager sees what Ryan can contribute on and off the pitch.

Arsenal have done well to begin pruning the squad, excising negative influences and selling players sulking around the club. Signings like Ryan will add depth to the squad, as well as experience, and help to build a positive and hardworking environment at London Colney.

As the club focuses on completing the deal, Arteta should take this chance to field Ryan in the Premier League further.

Leno is a nailed-on starter for the crucial Europa League games but these upcoming fixtures against Everton and Newcastle will go a long way in assessing Ryan’s quality over a larger sample size. The last thing Arsenal need is to spend money on a questionable backup that turns out to be worse than expected, like a certain Icelandic keeper.

Should the deal go through after giving Ryan continues to prove his worth in upcoming games, it seems as if the club will have taken an important step towards filling one of the many gaps in the porous Arsenal squad.