Sheffield United have reportedly rejected two bids from Arsenal for Aaron Ramsdale, but there’s some suggestion the media reports on his price have been exaggerated.

Aaron Ramsdale of England takes his seat on the substitutes bench during the UEFA European Championships match at Wembley Stadium, London. Picture credit David Klein / Sportimage
Aaron Ramsdale of England takes his seat on the substitutes bench during the UEFA European Championships match at Wembley Stadium, London. Picture credit David Klein / Sportimage

The Times claimed on Thursday that Sheffield United want more than £32m for Aaron Ramsdale, and they’ve told Arsenal as much after rejecting two offers from the Gunners this summer.

The suggestion is that Sheffield United are aware Ramsdale is one of few players that can really cash in on this summer, and argue his long contract, youth, homegrown status, and involvement with England mean a higher price is justified.

But all may not be quite as it seems. Gunnerblog of The Athletic claimed on Twitter on Wednesday that the reports over the potential fee for Ramsdale “are exaggerated”.

That wouldn’t be surprising, as every new report seems to give a higher Arsenal bid and an even bigger Sheffield United valuation.

The Times’ report also contradicts claims from Sky Sports that there’s been no direct contact between Arsenal and Sheffield United over Ramsdale just yet, with the interest being expressed through intermediaries.

If The Times are right, we’re way past the stage of expressing interest, and the clubs must have had some direct contact to discuss the two bids that have been rejected. This saga continues to be more than a bit puzzling.