Exclusive: Arsenal Goalkeeper Karl Hein Poised for Exit as Kepa Deal Nears Completion

Arsenal shot-stopper Karl Hein is expected to leave the club following the imminent arrival of new keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, SportsBoom can exclusively reveal.

The Estonian international has never played a first team league game for the Gunners despite signing a professional contract with the club in May 2019.

But last season the 23-year-old keeper enjoyed a successful loan spell with Spanish side Real Valladolid, where he played the most games of what has been a frustrating career.

Capped 37 times by his country, amazingly Hein has hardly played at domestic level since turning pro.

And now it’s little surprise he wants to take the next step in his career with his chances even more limited with Arrizabalaga’s arrival, with the 30-year-old expected to sign a £5million move from Premier League rivals Chelsea.

Valladolid are understood to be keen to sign Hein on a permanent deal, although they are expected to face competition for his signature with a number of Championship clubs monitoring the situation.

Preston North End, who recently released Freddie Woodman, have enquired about Hein, while Queens Park Rangers and Portsmouth have also made enquiries about the player’s next move.

LOAN OR PERMANENT MOVE?

Potential loan deals have been discussed as well as the chance to sign Hein on a permanent deal if the price is right, with a rumoured £1million asking price.

Hein started his career with Estonian club Numme United before the Gunners recognised his skills and signed him six years ago.

He was rewarded with a long-term deal in September 2021 but was then loaned to Reading to get some much-needed games under his belt.

However, he only played five games for the Royals after joining the in the January transfer window.

But at just 23 he has many years ahead of him and is desperate to be given the chance to prove his worth and play regular football, instead of wasting his talent as a third-choice keeper.