Arsenal may have an unexpected financial interest in the fallout from Southampton’s extraordinary spygate scandal.
Southampton were expelled from the Championship play-offs on Tuesday after they were found guilty of multiple breaches relating to the unauthorised filming of opponents’ training sessions ahead of games against Oxford, Ipswich and Middlesbrough in the play-off semi-final.
Middlesbrough have been reinstated and will face Hull City in the play-off final on Saturday, while Southampton have also been handed a four-point deduction for next season.
Change my mind, David Raya is the best Arsenal goalkeeper of the Emirates era.
The punishment ends Southampton’s hopes of an immediate return to the Premier League, which has significant implications for Aaron Ramsdale.
How Southampton’s relegation affects Arsenal’s Aaron Ramsdale sell-on clause
The former Arsenal goalkeeper is currently on loan at Newcastle United, who hold a £25 million option to buy.
Newcastle are expected to make a final decision this month, but with funds earmarked for other areas, they may opt against triggering the clause, meaning Ramsdale will return to Southampton for the summer window.
Had Southampton won promotion, Ramsdale would have likely stayed, but staying in the Championship changes that.
A permanent departure from St Mary’s is now far more likely, although potentially at a reduced price.
Where that concerns Arsenal, is according to football.london, the Gunners retained a sell-on clause when they sold Ramsdale to Southampton.
Should the goalkeeper get a permanent move this summer, Arsenal stand to receive a percentage of any fee, potentially running into the millions depending on the size of the deal.
Arsenal are also set to receive small financial windfall off the back of Ethan Nwaneri’s loan to Marseille, due to a clause involving his lack of playing time.
Although minor, these financial boosts may affect Arsenal’s room to manoeuvre in the summer transfer window.
For the first time in 22 years, they will be looking to strengthen their squad ahead of a season defending their Premier League title.
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