Bernd Leno has told Goal that he ‘can’t rule anything out’ in the summer transfer window as the Arsenal goalkeeper looks to earn regular playing time again after a tough campaign.
The German started the season as Mikel Arteta’s first-choice option between the sticks at the Emirates Stadium. But a disastrous August saw the Gunners go three games without a point or a goal. So, the Spaniard introduced summer signing Aaron Ramsdale to the role.
As results picked up following the switch and Ramsdale has continually impressed, Arteta has not felt required to recall Leno. The 30-year-old’s sole Premier League game since the north Londoners lost at Manchester City came at Aston Villa as Ramsdale was out injured.
Watching 20 top-flight fixtures from the bench ahead of Arsenal hosting Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday has only fuelled Leno’s desire to play. He cannot say for sure whether that will be at the Emirates, or to embark on one of the speculated options elsewhere.
The Daily Star reported earlier this month that Leno will look to return to Germany, so will snub Newcastle United. Arsenal will also listen to offers from around £5-10m, with Bayer Leverkusen interested in re-signing the shot-stopper four years after selling him for £22m.
Bernd Leno admits he ‘can’t rule anything out’ ahead of possible Arsenal exit
Leno has played down speculation he will quit Arsenal to secure a transfer back to Bayer Leverkusen this summer. But the goalkeeper has left the door open for a move away from north London. Leno also notes he and his agent are tracking developments for the market.
“You can’t rule anything out,” Leno said. “I’m 30 years old. So, you’d think that, despite the ambition and impatience, you might be a bit more relaxed about such a topic. Of course, there are always approaches, but it’s about playing here. That’s my first ambition.
“If the club plans otherwise, they have to approach me. Of course, my agency and I are keeping an eye on the situation. I read [about Bayer Leverkusen’s interest] too, but I don’t know anything about it.”
Leno will have just one year remaining on his £100k-a-week contract at Arsenal when the summer transfer market starts. Arteta will also welcome Matt Turner to the Emirates this off-season in a £7.5m deal with Major League Soccer franchise New England Revolution.
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