Aaron Ramsdale wants to make his move to Newcastle United permanent despite barely featuring since his summer switch, with the former Arsenal goalkeeper said to be thriving behind the scenes under Eddie Howe.
Ramsdale, who joined Southampton in 2024 after losing his place at Arsenal to David Raya, has made just two appearances for Newcastle, both in the Carabao Cup.
Yet the 27-year-old’s attitude, influence and professionalism have endeared him to staff and teammates to such an extent that he has reportedly already expressed a desire to remain at St James’ Park beyond this season.
Newcastle paid Southampton around £4 million to take Ramsdale on loan, with his wages bringing the total cost to more than £8 million. The Saints are expected to demand about £20 million to make the deal permanent, though it remains unclear whether that initial loan fee would be deducted from any future transfer.
Ramsdale is thought to be settled on Tyneside and eager to stay, viewing Newcastle as the right environment to relaunch his career and push for an England recall. He has been capped five times by the national team but has not played for his country since 2024.
Despite his limited match time, Howe has praised Ramsdale’s contribution, suggesting that his competition with Nick Pope has helped maintain the latter’s consistency. “Aaron’s been really pleased with his progression since he’s been here. We have seen good performances from him in training,” Howe told The Chronicle.
“Obviously, he played in the game against Spurs. I understand the question, but Nick has performed consistently. Our defensive record has been pretty strong this year. We have had a couple of blips this season. But defensively, that has been our strongest point. There are always decisions to make on the team and it is important we have that strength.”
It was at Bournemouth, under Howe, that Ramsdale first emerged as one of England’s brightest goalkeeping prospects before his £24 million move to Arsenal in 2021. He went on to make 89 appearances for the Gunners, keeping 32 clean sheets and helping them return to the Champions League.
His time in north London ended more abruptly than expected, but he retains the same energy, confidence and drive that made him a favourite at the Emirates.