Arsenal reach agreement to sign 18-year-old Aaron Ramsdale replacement

Arsenal fans are prepared for a sad farewell this summer. In terms of sheer likability, there aren't many out there who can beat Aaron Ramsdale. The goalkeeper established himself in the Arsenal history books forever when he helped them back into the Champions League but he never had an ego about it. In fact, he has taken his time on the bench well, and never kicked up a fuss or vilified the club.

In many ways, this has made it all the more heart-wrenching for Arsenal fans to watch one of their favourite players wither away on the bench.

Still, he has been at the forefront of many Arsenal celebrations since the decision was made by Mikel Arteta. As a professional who prioritises the prosper of others above himself, this has also been the case with the England national team this summer.

Arsenal reach agreement to sign 18-year-old Aaron Ramsdale replacement

Now, Arsenal are prepared for Aaron Ramsdale's seemingly imminent departure. According to a report from The Athletic, Arsenal have agreed to sign Tommy Setford from Ajax on a four-year deal. It is expected that Arsenal will pay €1m (£869k) plus add-ons for the 18-year-old England international.

Setford cannot replace Aaron Ramsdale yet since he is not at the level but under the right guidance and coaching at Arsenal, he can certainly reach the level. After coming through the Ajax youth ranks, it could be a case of Setford continuing in Arsenal's youth ranks. After all, he is yet to make a senior appearance for club or country, so it's difficult to gage his big match sharpness at this stage.

That said, Setford is certainly the long-term successor for the goalkeeper role at Arsenal. David Raya is still just 28 years old, which is not yet the peak for goalkeepers. However, Arteta is bulletproofing the position for many years to come, with Setford coming in at a bargain price.

In many ways, this was an opportunistic signing for Arteta to sign a young England international for a relatively measly price of €1m - Who can blame him?