Ruthless Arteta? Arsenal interest in David Raya replacement CONFIRMED

Tom Weber
Tom Weber
  • 22 Dec 2025 17:32 GMT
  • 4 min read
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal, 2025/26
© IMAGO

Arsenal are genuinely interested in Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper Diant Ramaj, a second source has confirmed.

Article continues under the video

Two weeks ago, a surprising rumour emerged in the German press. It was claimed that Arsenal had sent scouts to watch Ramaj, who is currently on loan at Heidenheim, in action. The 24-year-old has impressed in a poor team this season after a somewhat awkward summer transfer window.

Ramaj joined Dortmund from Ajax in the winter on the assumption that he would replace Gregor Kobel as the No.1 this summer. However, the Switzerland international stayed put, which forced Dortmund to loan him out.

Current ETV
Player image Diant Ramaj
Diant Ramaj

GK

Heidenheim logo

Heidenheim

Diant Ramaj
Diant Ramaj

GK

Heidenheim

Heidenheim

€9.1M

ETV Range

€7.7M - €10.4M

Currently, speculation over Kobel's future is remarkably quiet by his standards, so there is no guarantee that Ramaj will obtain that No.1 shirt he has been craving next season. This could lead to a quick departure from Dortmund.

Arsenal are well-stocked in the goalkeeper department with David Raya, the undisputed No.1, and Kepa Arrizabalaga, who is unlikely to be content with just sitting on the bench. On the face of it, Ramaj could be a replacement for the latter.

Arsenal interest in Ramaj confirmed

However, both of the Gunners' goalkeepers are on the wrong side of 30 now, which suggests that Arsenal are looking at Ramaj as a potential long-term replacement for Raya.

Indeed, BILD reporter Christian Falk suggests that the 24-year-old could be an option for the club's future, although it is acknowledged that he would initially be a backup. “Yes, it's true, Ramaj is on Arsenal’s list,” he said on his podcast.

Diant Ramaj
© IMAGO - Diant Ramaj

“The Heidenheim goalkeeper is actually only on loan from Dortmund, so they would have to sit down with them. He came in February 2025 for over €5m from Ajax, has a contract until 2029, and yeah, at 24 he’s a good age.

"Of course, it must be said that Arsenal has a good goalkeeper: David Raya, he’s the No.1. So, we’re talking more about a backup. There’s also Kepa Arrizabalaga, who’s already 31, and both have contracts until 2028.

"So it would be more of a forward-looking option, but certainly an interesting club for Ramaj.”

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