Arsenal are expected to complete the signing of goalkeeper Runar Alex Runarsson imminently, according to reports in Sky Sports.
The 25-year-old keeper plays for French side Dijon and has gone on to make 36 appearances for them in Ligue 1. He is also a member of the Iceland national team having made his debut in 2017.
The North London club are looking to replace Argentine Emiliano Martinez who left London to join Aston Villa. The report in Sky Sports states that the Emirates club are closing in on a deal for Runarsson which could be completed within the next 24 hours. Another option that was considered was David Raya but Brentford were not willing to let go of their keeper.
Goal are further reporting that the deal will be worth a little more than £1 million. They also mention that the Icelandic stopper could make his debut against Leicester City on Wednesday.
After the departure of Martinez, it was important for the Gunners to find a replacement. They needed someone to act as a backup for Bernd Leno and the Dijon keeper presents a good option especially with the fee that is being mentioned.
Runarsson has a connection with the London club, having already worked with goalkeeping coach Inaki Cana. They worked together during their time at Danish club FC Nordsjælland.
Wednesday’s Carabao Cup game presents a good opportunity for the youngster to showcase his skills. Leicester have a very strong attack and they will surely be a test for him.
As Goal have mentioned, the keeper is already in London having traveled there on Friday. He also spent the weekend training, so should be ready for the midweek game.
Given how many matches Arsenal will be playing this season, Runarsson will be getting plenty of opportunities to prove his mettle. His familiarity with Inaki Cana will help him to quickly adapt to the new surroundings.
Arsenal have won both their Premier League games this season and will want to continue their winning run going. The game might as well give the fans an opportunity to witness their new keeper in action.
