Despite previous reports, Brighton correspondent Aden-Jay Wood claims Mat Ryan isn’t yet close to a move to Arsenal.

According to Aden-Jay Wood, rumours that Mat Ryan is close to completing a permanent transfer to Arsenal are wide of the mark.

Reports originating with The S*n had suggested Arsenal were set to sign Ryan on a free transfer. We pointed out at the time that this was a little strange, considering the player still has a year left on his deal, though it’s also not unheard of in recent months.

For now, it doesn’t look like a move for Ryan is really as close as claimed.

The goalkeeper is away with his country anyway, starting and keeping a clean sheet against Kuwait in a World Cup qualifier on Thursday.

Those qualifiers will continue until June 15th, with a further three games to play. Australia are in pole position to make it through to the third AFC qualifying round after five wins in five games. Perhaps after that, the potential Arsenal talks will intensify.

Ryan made three appearances for Arsenal on his loan, keeping one clean sheet and conceding two goals. He also played a big role in the team’s late equaliser against Fulham in April. He’s admitted he’s hoping for the possibility of a North London return.