WIGAN keeper Sam Tickle turned down the chance to join Arsenal in the window.
Tickle, 22, was sounded out about going as third choice with the chance of a Premier League squad spot.
But the England Under-21 stopper was not interested in dropping into the shadows and opted to carry on in League One instead.
Arsenal lost David Raya‘s back-up stopper Aaron Ramsdale to Southampton.
Ramsdale had accepted he could not regain his place.
And thrilled Saints’ boss Russell Martin said: “Aaron is a big statement signing for us.
“Considering how many other clubs were eager to sign him, I am extremely appreciative of ownership and the board for making it happen.”
Ramsdale himself said: “I’m absolutely delighted. The way the manager wants to play, the way he was when I spoke to him, he was just full of so much enthusiasm.
“I’d never met him before, but he made me feel about eight feet tall, which is just what you want.
“Coming back down to the south coast as well for me and my family, it would be an easier transition than most, so I feel like I can hit the ground running.
FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS
“I’m looking forward to this year, just getting back to what I do best and having a big smile on my face while doing it here.”
The Gunners quickly brought in Bournemouth’s Neto, 35, as Ramsdale’s replacement on loan.
That followed Arsenal’s strong interest in Espanyol starlet Joan Garcia.
But the La Liga new boys side refused to budge from the Spaniard’s £25m release clause.
Arsenal have also been keen to find a home-grown third option between the sticks.
Wolves rejected a £50,000 bid for Daniel Bentley in July.
