Explained: How Arsenal outcast Aaron Ramsdale could be handed Premier League lifeline by Saudi Pro League riches

Ramsdale has been linked with a surprise switch to Wolves, having fallen out of favour at Arsenal thanks to last summer's capture of David Raya from Brentford. With Wolves back on the up and in contention to finish in the Premier League top half after a disappointing 2022-23, such a move has the potential to reignite Ramsdale's stalled career.

The Sun has reported that Ramsdale is of interest to Wolves because ongoing interest in current No.1 Jose Sa from the Saudi Pro League could see the club cash in on the 31-year-old, perhaps for as much as £40 million ($49m). That would in turn create a vacancy for a starting goalkeeper at Molineux needing to be filled, with Ramsdale a candidate alongside Liverpool understudy Caoimhin Kelleher and Sunderland's rising talent Anthony Patterson. Sam Johnstone from Crystal Palace might also have been an option but for a current elbow injury.

If Wolves were to sell Sa during the summer transfer window, it would come less than a year after he signed a new long-term contract until 2027 - with an option until 2028. That deal was announced last September, accompanied by glowing statements from sporting director Matt Hobbs about the club's commitment to Sa and his excitement for the current project.

One way or another, for the sake of his career, Ramsdale has to leave Arsenal before next season. Mikel Arteta's preference for Raya is clear and there is virtually no chance of reclaiming his regular place in north London. The right move could see Ramsdale challenging Jordan Pickford again to be England No.1 by the time of the next World Cup in 2026. That won't happen if he isn't a starter at club level.