"The pursuit of Aaron Ramsdale by Newcastle United signals a development, with Eddie Howe ending his extended hiatus from coaching"
Newcastle United Eyeing Aaron Ramsdale as a Progressive Goalkeeping Option
Newcastle United are reportedly eyeing Arsenal's Aaron Ramsdale as a potential goalkeeping target, aiming to bring in a shot-stopper who fits their style of smart, fast football. This move comes as the Tynesiders look to strengthen their defence, particularly in the goalkeeping department, following a disappointing 2021-2022 season.
Ramsdale, known for his modern 'sweeper keeper' style, offers superior footwork, distribution, and the ability to act as a last line of defence, aligning well with Newcastle's evolving tactics under Eddie Howe. In contrast, current Newcastle goalkeeper Nick Pope is a traditional, positional goalkeeper with strong shot-stopping abilities, but with limitations in ball distribution.
Last season, Ramsdale conceded more goals (66 in 30 games) than Pope (35 in 28 games), but made more saves overall (120 versus Pope’s 86), indicating higher defensive pressures during his matches. Pope, however, boasts a higher save percentage (71.7%) compared to Ramsdale's 67.6%, and excels in commanding his area, particularly in dealing with crosses.
Pope's command of his 18-yard box is a key reason for Newcastle's interest in him. He claimed close to 11% of opposition crosses into Newcastle’s box, while Ramsdale's average hovered around 5.3%. However, Ramsdale's shot-stopping performance has only bettered the league average once, compared to Pope's five seasons of performing above the league average.
Ramsdale's passing ability is a strength, attempting significantly more passes (1,026) than Pope (595) last season. This suits teams that play with a high defensive line and prioritize building from the back, which aligns with Newcastle’s tactics under Howe, who previously managed Ramsdale at Bournemouth.
Newcastle's defensive setup, including 6ft 7in Dan Burn, Dutch centre-half Sven Botman, and a potential three-at-the-back formation, may help mitigate Ramsdale's command issues.
The Tynesiders are yet to officially bid for Ramsdale, but conversations are taking place over the structure of a deal. However, Manchester City has exercised a 'matching clause' in James Trafford's Burnley contract, preventing Newcastle from signing him.
As the transfer window progresses, it remains to be seen whether Newcastle will be able to secure Ramsdale's services. If they do, it would represent a strategic move toward a goalkeeper better fitting their style of play, especially with a high defensive line demanding superior ball distribution from the keeper.
Newcastle United's pursuit of Aaron Ramsdale, noted for his modern sweeper-keeper style, could potentially lead to a shift in their goalkeeping department, considering Ramsdale's proficient passing ability aligns with Newcastle's tactical preference for a high defensive line and building from the back.
In the European leagues, Ramsdale's passing statistics surpass those of current Newcastle goalkeeper Nick Pope, suggesting that Ramsdale could potentially improve Newcastle's ball distribution, a key aspect of their evolving tactics.
