Arsenal and Werder Bremen are reportedly in advanced talks over a season-long loan deal for 23-year-old Estonian international Karl Hein.

According to a report by James McNicholas of The Athletic, Karl Hein is the subject of interest from Werder Bremen. The River Islanders are keen on reinforcing their first-team squad by signing a goalkeeper in the summer transfer window. So, the 23-year-old Arsenal shot-stopper has emerged as a target for the Bundesliga outfit.

The Polva native is closing in on joining Werder Bremen, as talks between the Bundesliga club and Arsenal have advanced. While the Gunners prefer a permanent exit and value Hein between £3 million and £5 million, a loan deal may come to fruition. In that case, Arsenal will prefer a purchase obligation clause in the agreement.

Karl Hein and his Arsenal troubles

Karl Hein has had to bide his time since graduating from the youth division at Arsenal. The Polva native spent most of his formative years in Estonia, passing through the academies at JK Loo and FC Nomme United before moving to Arsenal in July 2018. The youngster broke into the first-team squad at the Emirates in November 2022 but has managed only one appearance thus far for Arsenal.

However, the Estonian international was a mainstay between the sticks for Real Valladolid in the 2024/25 season. Meanwhile, with Hein not having a clear pathway to first-team football at Arsenal, he will likely embark on a new adventure in the summer transfer window. Werder Bremen will be among the prospective suitors vying for the 23-year-old goalkeeper’s signature.

La Liga return on the horizon?

Werder Bremen’s interest in Karl Hein is understandable. The River Islanders are scouring the market for a goalkeeper this summer amid uncertainties surrounding Michael Zetterer’s long-term future, with recent reports linking the experienced German goalkeeper with West Ham United.

So, Hein has emerged as a viable target for Werder Bremen, with the Bundesliga outfit advancing talks with Arsenal over a possible season-long loan deal. While the Gunners prefer a permanent exit for the homegrown prospect, they may have to accept a temporary departure.

However, Arsenal will aim to include a purchase obligation clause in the ongoing talks with Werder Bremen over a season-long loan deal. It will be interesting to see if the 23-year-old Estonian goalkeeper continues his career in the Bundesliga.