KEEPER Mark Travers insisted he was “thrilled” to see good pal and former team-mate Aaron Ramsdale thriving at new club Arsenal – and is eager to join him in the Premier League next season.

Former England under-21 international Ramsdale was snapped up by the Gunners from Sheffield United last month, in a deal which could reportedly reach £30million with add-ons.

He is yet to concede a goal for Mikel Arteta’s side, keeping clean sheets against West Brom, Norwich and Burnley.

Cherries also benefitted from the 23-year-old’s move, with the Daily Echo understanding a sell-on clause was in place with the Blades, following his transfer away from Vitality Stadium in 2020.

Having both signed for Cherries as teenagers, Travers and Ramsdale came through the ranks at Cherries under the watchful eye of the club’s former goalkeeping coach Neil Moss.

Speaking about Ramsdale’s big-money move to north London, Travers told the Daily Echo: “It’s unbelievable, you know? I worked for years with Rammers and we had a really tight goalkeeper union when we were all together.

“I am just thrilled for him to get his opportunity and his big move. He deserves it.

“He has been unbelievable the past two seasons and it’s great to see him playing in the Prem.

“Hopefully he can stay in and I’m sure he will because he’s an unbelievable talent. Only 23 as well, to be playing – he’s done great and he can hopefully keep doing that.”

Travers himself has grasped regular first-team football at Cherries this season, helping Scott Parker’s side reach the summit of the Championship with 18 points from eight games.

Asked whether Ramsdale’s progress inspired him, Travers replied: “Yeah, definitely. There’s a lot we can learn from each other and I’ve picked up a lot from Rammers.

“We pushed each other a lot when we were a few years younger, so I took a lot from that and of course, it gives you that portion of belief when you are working alongside each other every day.

“To see where he’s at now, of course, it gives you that extra push.

“I’m just delighted for him and where he is at – hopefully we can play alongside each other in the Prem next season and years to come.”

Ramsdale himself could be back in action for Arsenal, when they host one of his previous loan clubs in AFC Wimbledon at Emirates Stadium in the Carabao Cup tomorrow.

Travers is expected to keep his place when Scott Parker’s side host Luton on Saturday.