Reports suggest that the Gunners are eyeing 22-year-old Diant Ramaj, who only joined the Dutch giants last summer.
With speculation surrounding Aaron Ramsdale’s future, Ramaj could be a shrewd addition to Mikel Arteta’s squad.
Ramaj: from Frankfurt to Amsterdam, now to London?
Diant Ramaj made the switch from Eintracht Frankfurt to Ajax last summer in a deal worth around €5 million but the young shot-stopper had already caught Arsenal’s attention during his time in Germany.
If Ramsdale departs, which seems likely (more below), Ajax could be in line to make a healthy profit with Ramaj reportedly valued at €15 million.
Ideal fit for Arteta’s Arsenal
Ramaj’s playing style seems tailor-made for Mikel Arteta’s system. He’s known for his excellent distribution and comfort playing out from the back – essential qualities in a modern goalkeeper. While he’d obviously start behind David Raya, Ramaj’s potential makes him an appealing prospect for the Gunners.
Ajax: profit and reinvestment
It is expected that an offer from Arsenal would be seriously considered by Ajax, because, like Arsenal, they need to sell in order to buy. Ramaj is one of the few standout signings from former Arsenal man Sven Mislintat’s tenure, and this potential sale could provide crucial funds for reinvesting in the Ajax squad.
Ramaj’s rise under new management
Ramaj’s start at Ajax was initially rocky due to internal disputes, but he’s become an undisputed starter since Maurice Steijn’s departure on October last year.
With 28 games under his belt this season, including an impressive showing against Bodø/Glimt, his value has only increased. He has kept four cleansheets in that those games.
Diant Ramaj key facts
- Nationality: German, with Kosovar heritage
- Age: 22 years old (born September 19, 2001)
- Position: Goalkeeper
- Current Club: AFC Ajax (Eredivisie)
- Previous Clubs:
- Eintracht Frankfurt
- FC Heidenheim 1846
- SV Stuttgarter Kickers
- VfB Stuttgart
Career Summary
- Youth Development: Ramaj progressed through the youth systems of VfB Stuttgart, SV Stuttgarter Kickers, and 1. FC Heidenheim 1846.
- Eintracht Frankfurt: He joined Eintracht Frankfurt in 2021 for €100k and made his Bundesliga debut in 2022.
- AFC Ajax: Ramaj made the switch to Ajax in the summer of 2022, signing a contract until 2028 where he has established himself as the first-choice keeper.
- International: Ramaj has represented Germany at various youth international levels.
Playing Style
- Modern goalkeeper: Ramaj fits the profile of a modern goalkeeper, excelling in both shot-stopping and his ability to play with his feet.
- Distribution: He’s known for his composure on the ball and accurate passing, which aligns with the playing philosophies of teams like Ajax and Arsenal.
- Potential: Ramaj is still young and developing, making him an exciting prospect for the future.
Where to Find More Information
- Transfermarkt Profile: Transfermarkt Profile of Diant Ramaj (stats and career overview)
- Ajax Website: Ajax Official Website
Will Aaron Ramsdale be sold this summer?
Aaron Ramsdale is far too good to be sitting on any bench and it seems his Arsenal adventure will come to an end this summer, despite Mikel Arteta’s protestations that he wants two number ones.
Signed from Sheffield United in 2021, Ramsdale displaced Bernd Leno as the number one goalkeeper and quickly became a fan favourite for his passionate displays and shot-stopping abilities. Ramsdale played a crucial role in securing Champions League football for Arsenal in his first season.
However, the arrival of David Raya from Brentford shifted the dynamics. Raya, a product of the Blackburn Rovers academy, showcased his distribution and his ability to command his area – qualities highly valued by manager Mikel Arteta.
In addition, Ramsdale had only been purchased when Arsenal couldn’t finalise a deal for Raya. When the Spaniard arrived at the club, it was clear what would happen.
With two years left on his Arsenal contract, that means Ramsdale is at the ‘sell or renew’ point of his current deal. The 25-year-old is highly unlikely to consider extending his stay at the club given that he has played just 10 games all season.
Arsenal also seem unlikely to offer him a new deal. He is worth €28m and carries the English premium in a summer Arsenal want to invest again.
Arsenal will see those as funds as money that could be used to strengthen the outfield with a lower-grade replacement in goal likely to cost a fraction of Ramsdale’s value.
Arsenal’s goalkeepers in the Premier League era
In the beginning…
David Seaman: A true Arsenal legend, Seaman was a cornerstone of Arsenal’s dominance in the late 90s and early 2000s. Known for his iconic ponytail, reflexes, and occasional gaffe, his saves were crucial to winning three League titles and four FA Cups.
The Invincibles Era
Jens Lehmann: The German arrived after Seaman’s departure and had big gloves to fill. While often fiery, Lehmann was a key figure in Arsenal’s “Invincibles” season and their run to the Champions League final.
Post Invincibles uncertainty
Manuel Almunia: Without doubt the worst Arsenal goalkeeper of the Premier League era, responsible for numerous fan heart attacks. When one-on-one with Lionel Messi, he sat down.
The Rise of Szczesny & Fabiański
Wojciech Szczesny: The talented Pole burst onto the scene but it was off-field issues that did for him at Arsenal. This is one sale I don’t think I’ll ever forgive the club for.
Łukasz Fabiański: Fabiański shared goalkeeping duties with Szczesny, showcasing his shot-stopping ability before leaving for Swansea and was always a keeper who was better than the press coverage would lead you to believe.
Petr Čech: The legendary Czech keeper’s arrival from Chelsea brought experience and composure but it was clear his time at the top of the game was coming to an end. He won the Golden Glove in his final season.
Bernd Leno: Leno’s tenure had highs and lows, but he was generally a solid presence before being displaced.
Aaron Ramsdale: Proved himself to be more that capable of filling the Arsenal goal only to have done to him what he did to Bernd Leno.
David Raya: Has shown some shaky moments, but has generally grown during his short time with the club and is an excellent keeper.