Arsenal goalkeeper still set for exit before the transfer window closes

Tommy Setford is still expected to leave Arsenal on loan before the transfer window closes as the club look to secure regular first-team football for the young goalkeeper.

According to The Athletic, the 20-year-old remains on course for a temporary departure despite Arsenal’s goalkeeping situation appearing increasingly settled with eight days remaining in the window.

David Raya remains the undisputed first choice for Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, while Kepa Arrizabalaga is now expected to remain as his deputy.

Kepa previously had a release clause that could have facilitated a summer departure, but that option has now expired without another club activating it.

Arsenal also strengthened the position by signing Illan Meslier on a free transfer following his departure from Leeds United, giving Arteta three experienced senior goalkeepers. 

Meslier’s arrival was partly designed to provide Arsenal with enough depth to allow Setford to spend the campaign elsewhere and gain the senior experience that is difficult to find at the Emirates Stadium.

That pathway remains the plan heading into the final days of the window, with Setford unlikely to receive significant first-team minutes if he stays in north London.

Las Palmas have emerged as one potential destination, with the Spanish side reportedly working on a loan agreement for the England youth international earlier this month.

Setford joined Arsenal from Ajax in the summer of 2024 as one of the most highly-rated young goalkeepers in his age group and has subsequently continued his development with the academy and senior squad.

He made his competitive first-team debut against Preston North End in the League Cup during his first campaign before receiving further opportunities around Arteta’s senior squad.

First-team minutes remained extremely limited last season, however, reinforcing the belief that a loan is now the logical next stage of his development.

Setford has also progressed through England’s youth ranks and has already been involved at Under-21 level, increasing the importance of securing consistent senior football at club level.

Arsenal have been careful with temporary moves for their leading academy prospects, with the priority generally being to find destinations where meaningful playing time can be secured rather than simply moving players out.

The presence of Raya, Kepa and Meslier means there is little need for Arsenal to retain Setford as additional cover this season.

While Kepa now appears increasingly likely to stay, Setford’s situation is different, and the expectation remains that Arsenal will sanction a loan before the deadline if the appropriate opportunity is available.

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