Rumour: Arsenal linked with transfer move for Stoke’s Asmir Begovic

Asmir Begovic: Replacement fot the outgoing Fabianski?

Arsenal have reportedly opened talks with Stoke City over a move for Potters’ goalkeeper Asmir Begovic, with The Metro reporting that they are interested in an £8 million move for the Bosnian goalkeeper.

Arsene Wenger will be in the market for another goalkeeper this summer, in order to provide back up and competition for number one Wojciech Szczesny. Arsenal’s FA Cup winner Lukasz Fabianski has been an able deputy for his compatriot in recent seasons, but is set to leave the club in the summer upon the expiration of his contract in order to secure first team football.

This has sparked speculation linking Wenger with a move for Begovic, to replace Fabianski. Reports suggest that talks are underway over an £8 million move, although a deal is far from certain. Stoke have previously resisted speculation linking their number one with a move away from the club, standing firm in the face of previous interest from top sides.

While they have Jack Butland as competition for Begovic, they are under no pressure to sell should they decide to keep their number one. Begovic would also be within his rights to demand a number one role should he leave Stoke, given his form in recent seasons, which he would not be guaranteed at Arsenal.

Begovic made 32 appearances this season and kept nine clean sheets, seven fewer than Szczesny.