United States goalkeeper Matt Turner is set to join Arsenal this summer – and he has already made a great impression on Gunners fans.
The 27-year-old, a boyhood Arsenal fan – has agreed to join Mikel Arteta‘s side from MLS outfit New England Revolution. He has made 18 appearances for his country, and is now established as the number one goalkeeper under Gregg Berhalter.
Arsenal will pay an initial fee of $6 million for Turner. That fee could rise to $10 million if all add-ons are met.
He will likely arrive as backup to Aaron Ramsdale, with Bernd Leno linked with a move away from Arsenal this summer.
Speaking about his move earlier this month, Turner told Sky Sports: “I’d agree with it [the backup tag] for now. I’m coming in to push [Ramsdale] and become the best goalkeeper I can become, while also making him the best goalkeeper he can become. That’s really my goal for it all.
“The project they have going on there, I want to be an important part of the locker room. Adding some experience – not a ton of Premier League experience, but national team experience, league experience, and playing games in pressured environments.”
Matt Turner hasn’t yet set foot in the Emirates Stadium, or played a match for his new club, as he doesn’t officially join Arsenal until July 1. But he is already in high regard amongst fans.
Turner refuses to sign Spurs fan’s shirt
Matt Turner played his last game for New England Revolution on Sunday before embarking on a new journey.
His side beat Minnesota United 2-1 in MLS. The 27-year-old made five vital saves to end his spell on a winning note. But it is what happened after the match that has made headlines.
Turner was signing autographs for the New England faithful. Some Arsenal shirts are also visible. However, the goalkeeper was then approached to sign a Spurs fan’s shirt – and his reaction, at least for Gunners fans, was priceless.
He moves towards the shirt, intending to sign it. However, then quickly realises it is the shirt of his new side’s North London rivals.
Turner shouts: “No, no, no, no,” and withdraws the pen, before adding, “That’s disgusting”.
If the 27-year-old can produce similar memorable moments on the field of play, Arsenal fans will no doubt come to love their newest addition to the squad.
Featured Image Credit: Getty