But Raya has since started 12 matches across the Premier League and Champions League in a row, with Ramsdale confined to Carabao Cup action. Ramsdale will get a chance on Saturday as Raya is ineligible to play against parent club Brentford.
That initially would have been a boost for Ramsdale, who will have been looking to send a ‘Remember me’ message to Arteta. But just two days out from his return to league action, reports have surfaced that Arsenal have already decided they will trigger the clause to buy Raya.
Arsenal were not obligated to buy the Spaniard and could have waited until later in the season before making a decision. But Fabrizio Romano says Gunners chiefs have indicated to Brentford they will take up the option.
Just as Ramsdale sees a slight opening to get back into the team, he has it closed in his face. Raya already has terms on a long-term deal in place.
At 25, Ramsdale is too good to be sitting on the bench. Whether it is in January or next summer, it appears his time in north London is coming towards a sad and inevitable conclusion.
