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Martin Keown has given a positive instant reaction to the news that Arsenal have signed Brighton goalkeeper on loan.

Australia international Ryan has completed a move to Arsenal on loan for the rest of the 2020/21 season.

The Gunners currently have reliable star Bernd Leno as their number one in-between the sticks, so it’s not a position that needs strengthening.

But having a solid back-up is an issue that Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta may have just resolved.

The North London club allowed Emiliano Martinez to join Aston Villa in the summer and he’s showing what a top-class goalkeeper he is.

It’s been a difficult start for summer signing Runar Alex Runarsson at the Emirates Stadium so far, which is why on-loan Brighton star Ryan has joined to strengthen the options in goal.

Keown has commented on the January transfer signing for his former club Arsenal:

“This is a good adjustment Mat Ryan coming in. He’s been out of the team at Brighton. He’s coming with a good experience and that’s what Arsenal need in the event that Leno gets injured at any point,” Keown told talkSPORT.

TBR’s View:

Ryan’s move to Arsenal is one that has come somewhat out of the blue, but it looks like an extremely sensible one.

Despite losing his spot recently in the Brighton XI, the 28-year-old shot-stopper is someone that is good with the ball at his feet and he’s made 123 club appearances for the Seagulls.

It looks like Runarsson may need a bit more time to settle after some dodgy moments in his brief Arsenal career, but Ryan has proven he’s a solid option and perhaps he’ll get minutes in the Europa League.

Not a deal for fans to get too excited about, but an astute one at least.