Transfer Centre

Arsenal 'plotting summer move for Eredivisie goalkeeper'

By Carter White | 22 May 2024

Arsenal are reportedly eyeing up a summer move for Feyenoord goalkeeper Justin Bijlow, who could join the Gunners to become David Raya's deputy between the sticks.

Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing Feyenoord goalkeeper Justin Bijlow as a second-choice stopper.

The 26-year-old has struggled with a multitude of fitness issues this season but has managed to retain spot between the sticks for the Pride of the South when available.

Bijlow has made a total of 17 Eredivisie appearances for Feyenoord this campaign, keeping six clean sheets and helping Arne Slot's troops to second place, finishing seven points behind Dutch champions PSV Eindhoven.

The keeper also possesses relative international pedigree, having earned eight caps for the Netherlands since making his international debut in October 2020.

Bijlow has only ever played for Feyenoord in senior club football, making 143 competitive appearances following his maiden start in January 2016.

Feyenoord goalkeeper Justin Bijlow on March 16, 2023 © Reuters

Arsenal keen on signing Feyenoord's Bijlow?

According to The Mirror, Arsenal have made the acquisition of a new goalkeeper one of their key transfer priorities during the summer trading point.

The report claims that the Gunners are considering a move for Feyenoord's Bijlow, whose long association with the Pride of the South could come to an end.

It is understood that the 26-year-old would be recruited as a second-choice option at the Emirates, challenging preferred man David Raya for a place in the XI.

Having signed on loan from London rivals Brentford last summer, Spaniard Raya is fully expected to complete a permanent transfer to Mikel Arteta's men this summer.

Such a move is likely to push Aaron Ramsdale further out of the Emirates door, with Newcastle United supposedly close to submitting a £15m offer for the England international.

Feyenoord coach Arne Slot on October 4, 2023 © Reuters

Liverpool 'also admirers of Arsenal-linked Bijlow'

Moving from the Eredivisie to Anfield this summer, there is a small possibility that Bijlow follows his former Feyenoord coach Slot through the door on Merseyside.

It is believed that the new Reds boss is a big admirer of the goalkeeper, however it is said that Liverpool are prioritising the strengthening of other areas in their squad.

Manchester United were understood to be interested in Bijlow last summer, although the Red Devils stepped back from a possible swoop after learning of Feyenoord's £22m asking price.

Skipping forward 12 months - and with the keeper having just two years left on his contract in the Eredivisie - Arsenal could reportedly secure the services of the player for £10m.