Aaron Ramsdale may be on his way back to the Premier League, with West Ham United now in talks to sign the England goalkeeper following Southampton’s relegation last month.
Southampton, who finished 19th and dropped out of the top flight, are said to be seeking around £20 million for the 26-year-old. The club, under financial pressure after the drop, are trying to cut their wage bill. Ramsdale earns close to £100,000 a week, a figure the Championship side may struggle to carry into next season.
Negotiations are ongoing, but no agreement has yet been confirmed by either club. However, sources close to the talks say West Ham manager Graham Potter is pushing for the deal to go through.
“Ramsdale fits what Potter wants—he’s confident on the ball, experienced, and still has time to grow,” one club insider told The Sun.
The Hammers are looking to strengthen their goalkeeping department following the exit of veteran Łukasz Fabiański. Ramsdale would join Alphonse Areola in the squad, with the two expected to battle it out for the No. 1 shirt.
Ramsdale’s 2024–25 season with Southampton was a rough one. The team conceded 66 goals in the league, the third-highest in the division. But those familiar with his earlier career still see value in his ability.
He rose to prominence with standout performances at Bournemouth and Sheffield United before earning a big-money move to Arsenal in 2021. Although he eventually lost his starting spot at the Emirates, Ramsdale remains highly rated for his reflexes and distribution.
“He’s had a tough year, but Ramsdale has shown before that he can bounce back. West Ham might just be the right fit at the right time,” said former England goalkeeper David James on talkSPORT.
Whether Ramsdale will accept a move that may initially involve a rotation role is yet to be seen. Areola, who stepped up as first-choice last season, remains a strong presence at London Stadium.
For now, West Ham supporters await news, hoping the club can finalize what could be one of their most important signings of the summer.
