Arsenal starlet now makes last-minute change in loan plan, he’s secured a better move

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Arsenal were close to agreeing a deal to send young goalkeeper Karl Hein on loan to Charlton Athletic, but in a dramatic turn of events, this deal has changed at the last minute.

Hein was Arsenal’s third-choice goalkeeper last season behind David Raya and Aaron Ramsdale, and he played a key role in this year’s pre-season tour in the USA with both of the other goalkeepers absent.

The Estonia International agreed a new contract to stay at the club earlier on in the summer, but only on the basis that he would be granted a loan move to play regularly.

This led to Hein agreeing to move to League One side Charlton, where it was expected that he would play regularly. However, this has now changed.

• READ MORE: Arsenal 24/25 confirmed signings, transfers in and out, loan exits and releases

Real Valladolid hijack Charlton move for Arsenal goalkeeper Karl Hein

Fabrizio Romano has now revealed that despite Hein being on the verge of joining Charlton, he has now agreed a move to Real Valladolid in La Liga, who hijacked the deal at the last minute.

“Karl Hein, set to leave Arsenal on loan to join Spanish side Real Valladolid until the end of the season. His salary will be covered by Valladolid,” he posted on X.

The Standard have now reported that whilst Hein was open to joining Charlton, he could not turn down the opportunity to play in La Liga.

Real Valladolid are owned by former Real Madrid striker Ronaldo Nazario, who is well acquainted with Arsenal director Edu Gaspar, and their relationship may have played a part in such a swift deal.

Karl Hein has secured better loan move in Real Valladolid transfer u-turn

Charlton would have been a good move for Hein given that he would have played regularly and stayed in London, but League One may have been below his level given his status as an International goalkeeper.

His move to Real Valladolid is a better one, as it will give him the chance to test himself against top-flight opposition, and away at huge clubs and intimidating stadiums such as Barcelona, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid.

Real Valladolid were looking to replace their previous first-choice goalkeeper in Jordi Masip, and Hein will slot in as the number one option, and a whole season of top-flight experience could do wonders for the 22-year-old.