Despite denials, Arsenal‘s Icelandic goalkeeper, Runar Alex Runarsson, is reportedly set for an early return from his loan spell at Cardiff City.

Despite joining the Bluebirds for the season, Runarsson has struggled for regular playing time, making only eight appearances, with none in the past month. Cardiff manager Erol Bulut has preferred Jak Alnwick in goal.

While Runarsson initially enjoyed a run of five consecutive Championship starts in November and December, his time at Cardiff ultimately fell short of expectations. Recent weeks saw him back on the the bench after returning from a head injury, but the club’s pursuit of alternative options, like Ethan Horvath from Nottingham Forest, means Runarsson’s time in Wales is likely to come to an end.

Cardiff boss Bulut previously attributed Runarsson’s absence to a head injury, dispelling rumours of an early recall by Arsenal. However, recent reports suggest the loan will indeed be terminated if Swansea can sign Hovarth.

Runarsson’s reported return to Arsenal raises questions about his future, especially given the lack of suitors when Arsenal tried to sell him in the summer. With just six appearances for the Gunners since joining in 2020, and his last coming back in February 2021, his first-team chances are non-existent.

Signed for €2m in 2020, Runsarsson’s time at the club has been a disaster but, it is being reported that the club are now in talks with the player to terminate his contract with immediate effect.

In addition, FC Copenhagen are hoping to sign a goalkeeper today.