Sunderland are advancing interest in signing Aaron Ramsdale but a potential move could cost hefty to the keeper's World Cup ambitions with England.
It's been a week since Aaron Ramsdale's last Galatasaray update and sadly, the keeper's European dream feels over now. And considering this cold shoulder amidst repeated rejections, Ramsdale's best chance to continue in the Top Flight feels reduced to just a promoted club.
Listening to this, the priority club in contention for Ramsdale has been Sunderland. Not long ago, Southampton had been encouraged to see an exchange of keepers with the Premier League suit.
Well, we haven't heard back from Southampton on the deal, but Sunderland's interest in Ramsdale has been quite noticeable. Earlier tipped as a far-fetched rumour, Ramsdale is still an active option for the club.
Recently, Saints Extra confirmed Sunderland's interest, quoting: "Saints goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale has emerged as a possible option for Sunderland."
Ramsdale's World Cup hopes at risk if he joins Sunderland
Honestly, this transfer update must remind fans of Ramsdale's initial Sunderland fears. But what's the bigger concern this time is that should these speculations turn true, Ramsdale's English hopes could be pretty much over.
That's because, already 27, Ramsdale is projected to be at his peak form by the time the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks in. Sounds interesting, right? But, if things go the opposite way and Ramsdale faces relegation with Sunderland, it could eliminate his candidature for the English national team forever.
Well, and who better than his Southampton teammates to make him understand this?
Take the case of Saints legend Adam Lallana. Despite being an undisputed starter for England, an unfortunate injury-prone 2017/18 season saw the midfielder never being called up again.
Or Kyle Walker-Peters' case, who despite having had two modest appearances for the Three Lions in early 2022, wasn't selected for the June World Cup as the full-back underwent a disastrous relegation with Southampton.
Time and again, such tales have proven how a single incident can completely dismantle one's national career hopes. And if Ramsdale sees his 4th relegation at Sunderland next season, he is guaranteed to get overshadowed by Jordan Pickford again for the WC selection next year.
Long story short, this Sunderland move comes as a double-edged sword for Ramsdale who needs to consider multiple possibilities before deciding upon the move. Until then, let's see if the keeper attracts any other offers.