Arsenal have confirmed goalkeeper Emi Martinez has joined Spanish side Getafe on a season-long loan, suggesting David Ospina will stay to be Petr Cech’s understudy.

The news will come as a surprise as the younger shot-stopper looked set to be Arsenal’s second choice for the 2017/18, with Ospina seeking a move from the Emirates Stadium this summer.

However, no deal was deemed acceptable for Arsenal and the Colombian goalkeeper has since revealed his desire to fight for a starting place ahead of Cech. Game time alluded Martinez last season, making just five appearances for Arsenal, and the lack of minutes was likely the reason why he’s been loaned out this summer.

Manager Arsene Wenger will be hoping the goalkeeper continues developing in the Spanish top flight, having previously been loaned out to the likes of Wolves, Rotherham United, Sheffield Wednesday and Oxford United.

Arsenal supporters may be disappointed with Martinez following Wojciech Szczesny through the exit door, albeit on loan. Many would have preferred to keep the pair who have left over the pair who will remain. But Wenger clearly disagrees and has opted for experience ahead of the new season.

Szczesny joined Juventus to be Gianluigi Buffon’s eventual replacement in 12 months. Martinez could still have a future at Arsenal.