Nottingham Forest has officially announced the completion of a significant transfer, securing American goalkeeper Matt Turner from Arsenal.
Turner's departure from Arsenal comes with a reported transfer fee of £10 million ($12.75 million) as he embarks on a new chapter with Nottingham Forest. The talented goalkeeper has committed to a four-year contract with the club. His journey led him to Arsenal in June of the previous year, following his stint with New England Revolution.
Turner shared his enthusiasm about the new move in an interview with Forest's website, stating,
“It feels great to be here. It’s a great challenge and a great step in my career.
“When I heard that there was interest to bring me here, it just felt right for my family, it felt right when my agent spoke to me about it and it feels like the right move for me right now.
“The manager and the backroom staff, everything about the club has a little sparkle to it. It’s felt right from the start and I’m happy it’s got done.”
Arsenal's Sporting Director Edu acknowledged the departure of the goalkeeper, stating,
“On behalf of everyone at the club, we would like to thank Matt for his contribution to Arsenal and wish him and his family all the best in their new chapter.
“Matt is an international goalkeeper with the United States and is at a stage of his career when he needs to be playing regularly. He is leaving with our best wishes to join Nottingham Forest.”
Turner has solidified his position as the top goalkeeper for the United States, playing a pivotal role in their recent Gold Cup campaign that saw them reach the semi-finals.
At 29 years old, Turner gained prominence as a starter for the U.S. national team during all four of their World Cup matches last year. However, his appearances for Arsenal in the past season were primarily in cup competitions. With Nottingham Forest, Turner aims to secure more regular playing time, especially as Arsenal recently secured the signing of David Raya from Brentford, further reducing Turner's chances of becoming the first-choice goalkeeper for the London club.
This acquisition marks Nottingham Forest's fourth permanent signing of the summer, following earlier additions of Chris Wood, Ola Aina, and Anthony Elanga.