Arsenal want to sign Feyenoord star Justin Bijlow as David Raya’s back-up

Arsenal are interested in signing Feyenoord goalkeeper Justin Bijlow as a back-up option for David Raya, according to De Telegraaf.

The Gunners signed Raya on loan from Brentford last summer with an option to buy. They are expected to trigger the clause when the transfer window reopens.

Meanwhile, the club appear to be preparing for the departure of Aaron Ramsdale with Bijlow identified as a potential back-up and competitor to Raya next term.

De Telegraaf highlight that Arsenal want two strong ball-playing goalkeepers in the squad similar to Ederson and Stefan Ortega at Manchester City.

Mikel Arteta’s side are said to be ‘serious’ over signing Bijlow, who has spent his entire career at Feyenoord, making 141 appearances for them.

Bijlow could replace Ramsdale at Arsenal

Ramsdale has been a favourite among the fans since his arrival from Sheffield United in 2021.

The Englishman had two good campaigns between the sticks, but the manager still opted to sign Raya last summer due to his better passing attributes.

Ramsdale did make 11 appearances over the season, but he had some nervous moments. He made two high-profile errors in the away win over Brentford.

Against the same opposition at home, he gifted a goal with a blunder. Ramsdale redeemed himself with two fantastic saves, but that could be his final Arsenal game.

The 26-year-old is still a good shot-stopper and could look to revive his career elsewhere.

Meanwhile, Bijlow would be a quality acquisition. He had an injury-plagued campaign, but was still impressive with 33 passes completed per outing.

The Netherlands star also managed six long balls on average for the 2022/23 Eredivisie champions.

Feyenoord valued him at £20 million last summer, but Arsenal will be aiming to sign him for less with his contract due to expire in a couple of years’ time.

Stats from Sofascore.com