After losing his starting spot as Arsenal’s first-choice goalkeeper last season, Bernd Leno is expected to leave the club this summer. Last September, the German was dethroned by newcomer Aaron Ramsdale, and he has yet to reclaim his position between the pipes.
Benfica is said to be leading the race to sign the Germany international. Despite the fact that Leno is available for as cheap as £8.5 million, the Portuguese club is thought to be hesitant to meet Arsenal’s asking price. Benfica’s unwillingness to pay such a small fee for a goalkeeper of Leno’s caliber is perplexing.
Bernd Leno would undoubtedly be interested in making such a transfer. While watching Aaron Ramsdale play front of him, the 30-year-old has cut a melancholy figure on the touchlines for Arsenal this season. Although a split would be best for both sides, Arsenal fans will remember Leno fondly.
In terms of a backup goalkeeper, Mikel Arteta has already found a substitute for Leno. Matt Turner, a goalkeeper from the New England Revolution of Major League Soccer, will join Arsenal on July 1st. The £7.5 million agreement to bring Turner to Arsenal will almost certainly make Leno surplus to needs.
Bernd Leno isn’t the only Arsenal player who could be leaving this summer. Ainsley Maitland-Niles, Edric Soares, and Nicolas Pépé have all been linked with moves away from the Emirates Stadium. Alex Lacazette’s contract is also up for renewal in the near future.