Gunners ready to explore Hein loan option

Image source, Getty Images

  • Author, Simon Stone
  • Role, Chief football news reporter in Los Angeles

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed the club are considering whether to send young goalkeeper Karl Hein out on loan.

With David Raya and Aaron Ramsdale both on a break after Spain and England reached the Euro 2024 final, Hein is the senior keeper on Arsenal's three-match tour of the United States.

However, a decision will eventually have to be made over the 22-year-old Estonia international, who signed a long-term contract extension in the summer.

The arrival of England youth international Tommy Setford from Ajax means it is more likely Hein - who was outstanding in the pre-season friendly against Bournemouth, making three key saves in the actual game and more in the penalty shootout which decided the contest in Los Angeles - will head out on loan.

"That's the conversation we are having," said Arteta.

"Obviously, David and Aaron are away at the moment and we are really really short in that position, but we want to develop our players - especially a player like Karl who has big potential and a big future ahead of him.

"He needs to play games, so we're going to explore that option as well."