Arsenal decision on Andre Onana hints at Leno future

Bernd Leno Looking Likely to Stay at Arsenal With New Contract

If we’ve learnt anything in the past six months about where Arsenal are trying to make amends, it’s with protecting the value of their assets.

Rob Holding was tied down long-term back in January, a smart move by all accounts. That was followed up by new deals being handed out to Eddie Nketiah and Reiss Nelson, and while the former has rejected his and the likelihood is that the latter will reject his too, it shows an improvement in strategy from the club.

Which is why it wouldn’t be surprising at all if Leno were to be offered a new deal, even with a view to moving him on in a year’s time.

All the reports are that Arsenal are open to selling Leno and that he is open to leaving, but with no strong links either way it grows increasingly likely that another year in north London, and thus one less job to tick off, wouldn’t be considered a huge issue – largely because it isn’t.

Arteta could do far worse than have Leno in between the sticks and all the movement towards a homegrown understudy who can grow into the number one role makes sense.

Furthermore, the number of deals that will be sanctioned this summer on initial loans with options/obligations to buy is an indicator of the lack of finance across Europe. It is hoped that the majority of clubs will have more wiggle room in the following summer and for players like Leno it opens up his possibilities.

Would it be a shame to miss out on Onana? Absolutely. It isn’t every day you get players who were worth £50m two years ago available for £8m, even if there is some baggage attached. He is a hugely talented, energetic and proactive goalkeeper who comes at a great age. Why use up the homegrown places on left-backs and instead sign a goalkeeper who will lift the bar considerably?

It is apparent though that Arsenal really are honing in on the homegrown situation, but links to uninspiring options like Ramsdale feels like picking the best of an average bunch.

There is plenty of room for change regarding Leno and Onana, as ever in this window, yet as the Cameroonian’s case goes cold it does hint towards a less tumultuous window in the goalkeeping department.