After stalling contract talks, Arsenal and Karl Hein have finally agreed an extension for the Estonian goalkeeper.

Karl Hein signs new Arsenal contract (via Arsenal)
Karl Hein signs new Arsenal contract (via Arsenal)

Over the summer, it looked very likely that Karl Hein would leave the club.

His contract was running down and Brighton were keen on signing him to replace Mat Ryan, the keeper who spent part of last season on loan with Arsenal before heading to Spain.

Football.London had reported that contract talks between Arsenal and Hein had stalled.

They expected the 19-year-old to leave on a free next summer.

Now, however, Arsenal have announced a contract extension for the player.

“It means a lot to extend my contract with this big club, a big club in Europe, a massive club with traditions. I’m very happy, very happy,” Hein told Arsenal Media.

“It’s been a long process [at Arsenal]. First year I had quite a long-term injury with my wrist, it was a tough time but I think I went through it well.

“Next season was good, did well with the 23s and then step by step I got involved in the national team, got involved more with the first team and slowly but surely it’s been good progress.

“My ambitions are to play for Arsenal ultimately, train hard, keep the progress going and then hopefully get my chance.

“Step by step, every day I feel more comfortable and it’s been a good pre-season and I’m looking forward to this season.”

Hein was recently on the bench for Estonia’s friendly against Northern Ireland, who also had Arsenal youngster, Daniel Ballard, on the bench.

Despite still being a teenager, Hein already has 10 full caps for his country.