New England Revolution goalkeeper Matt Turner has admitted that European clubs want to sign him with Premier League giants Arsenal keen on the MLS star, speaking to TUDN.
After his very own annus mirabilis, Turner would have been forgiven for assuming he had a very good chance of succeeding Zack Steffen as the USA’s first-choice shot-stopper ahead of the Qatar World Cup.
Imagine his disappointment, then, when USMNT boss Gregg Berhalter made it clear that the New Jersey-born 27-year-old had not done enough to earn himself the number one shirt.
“It was very disappointing,” says Turner.
“I talked to Gregg about the areas where I can improve. Because I was not going to accept that I would not play.”
Whether moving across the Atlantic would prove to be a help or a hindrance to Turner’s international prospects is anyone’s guess.
According to The Guardian, Arsenal have all-but agreed personal terms with the 2021 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year. Although they are yet to rubber-stamp a fee with New England Revolution themselves.
Will Arsenal replace Bernd Leno with USA ace Matt Turner?
Joining one of the biggest clubs in Europe would certainly enhance Turner’s reputation, both at home and abroad.
On the other hand, the Gold Cup winner would find first-team football far harder to come by in North London.
Aaron Ramsdale is firmly established as Mikel Arteta’s number one these days after all.
“It is true that there is interest (from Europe),” Turner adds.
“It all comes down to what is best for me. The World Cup is 10 months away, I want to make a smart decision. I feel good where I am now and how far I have come.
“But I would like to challenge myself one day.
“If you had told me at the end of 2020 about how 2021 was going to be for me, I probably wouldn’t have believed it. I think I gave my best in the opportunities I had.”
Turner’s arrival would pave the way for Bernd Leno to bring an end to his four-year spell at Arsenal. Premier League rivals Newcastle United want the Germany international on a loan-to-buy deal.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
