Anderlecht eye move for Arsenal keeper Runar Alex Runarsson

Arsenal’s third-choice goalkeeper Runar Alex Runarsson is attracting interest from Anderlecht, according to Sacha Tavolieri.

Runarsson’s future at Arsenal has been uncertain following his loan spells in Belgium and Turkey. 

The 28-year-old spent time on loan at Alanyaspor in Turkey last season. He had previously featured for OH Leuven in Belgium during the 2021/22 campaign. 

The Gunners are now eager to offload the goalkeeper permanently.

They have set a modest price tag of only £1 million – around the same price they paid to Dijon to sign him.

In a related development, Anderlecht have agreed to sell their promising young goalkeeper, Bart Verbruggen.

The 20-year-old Dutchman is joining Brighton & Hove Albion for £17 million.

Brighton manager Robert De Zerbi has identified Verbruggen as a potential upgrade to their current goalkeeper, Jason Steele.

Runarsson could be the man to replace Verbruggen at Anderlecht.

Arsenal’s pursuit of a permanent suitor for Runarsson has been ongoing as the club seeks to find a suitable destination for the player. 

However, it is worth noting that the Gunners are unlikely to bring in a replacement if he leaves.

They already have Matt Turner providing cover and competition for their current first-choice goalkeeper, Aaron Ramsdale.

Runarsson’s time at Arsenal has been underwhelming, making only six appearances and conceding seven goals. 

The goalkeeper’s most memorable performance, albeit for the wrong reasons, came during Arsenal’s 4-1 League Cup defeat to Manchester City in December 2020.

Arsenal are also trying to sell Thomas Partey this summer. Juventus have shown interest in acquiring his services.

The Gunnera are also bidding to advance with moves for top targets Kai Havertz, Jurrien Timber and Declan Rice.

However, they are facing complications in the Rice deal. Premier League champions Manchester City are now firmly in the race for the West Ham United midfielder.