Arsenal are expected to ramp up their pursuit of Sheffield United goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale over the next seven days, according to the Sheffield Star

Ramsdale impressed for the Blades last season despite their relegation from the Premier League – earning himself a call up to Gareth Southgate's Euro 2020 squad as a replacement for Dean Henderson.

With United facing a season in the Championship, it seems the Gunners are keen to swoop for the 23-year-old and it is understood they've had two bids rejected already.

The Sheffield Star has reported that those offers were made via intermediaries but Arsenal are now set to ramp up their pursuit of the shot-stopper in the next seven days by opening a direct line of communication with the Bramall Lane outfit.

Ramsdale still has three years left on his current deal with the Yorkshire club, having rejoined them last summer in a move worth more than £18 million, and that puts the Blades in a strong negotiating position concerning the player they're believed to value at £40 million.

The Verdict

You get the feeling we could see some significant movement either way in the Ramsdale situation in the next few weeks, with the Championship and Premier League seasons set to start in August.

It seems the Gunners are set to up their pursuit of the 23-year-old and that will seriously test the United's resolve – particularly if an offer is made near their valuation.

Getting £40 million for Ramsdale would seem a great bit of business from the Blades but it would certainly be a setback to head into the season without their number one and even more obstructive if it happens after the start of the campaign.