Maty Ryan's perfect response to £20m Arsenal Emiliano Martinez link and his shock at Aaron Mooy's China exit

Albion goalkeeper Maty Ryan insists Brighton's interest in signing Arsenal's £20m rated stopper Emiliano Martinez will not distract him ahead of the new Premier League season
Maty Ryan was an ever-present in the Premier League for Albion last seasonMaty Ryan was an ever-present in the Premier League for Albion last season
Maty Ryan was an ever-present in the Premier League for Albion last season

Brighton begin their new campaign against Frank Lampard's Chelsea at the Amex Stadium on Monday night where Ryan will no doubt have to be at his very best against a lethal looking Chelsea attack.

The Australian international is known for his professionalism but even his attention may have diverted a touch with the news that Albion are in the race to sign Martinez.

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Ryan, 28, has been excellent for Albion since his arrival from Valencia in 2017. He was an ever-present in the Premier League last season and adapted well to Graham Potter's tactics of utilising the goalkeeper to play out from the back.

Brighton however appear keen to add some extra competition in the goalkeeping department and Martinez, who impressed greatly for the Gunners while Bernd Leno was injured last season, has caught their eye.

Albion sold No 2 keeper David Button to West Brom earlier this month and Christian Walton sustained a nasty ankle injury in pre-season following his return from an impressive season long loan at Blackburn.

Brighton also have ex-Sunderland keeper Jason Steele and Spanish stopper Robert Sánchez on their books

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"I hadn't even seen any of it (the Martinez link)," said Ryan to the Sydney Morning Herald. "I don't know what I was doing last night, I was watching a bit of the golf and went to bed.

"I woke up and still hadn't looked at my phone, really.

"Competition is always going to bring out the best for everyone, but I have no idea what the situation is with all that.

"All I know is I'm a player for Brighton and I'm preparing to try and have the best season I can personally to help contribute to the club.

"If it was to happen, I back myself to get on with it and do all I can to maintain my place [in the team].

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"But right now, that particular circumstance isn't a reality. There's a lot of speculation so I'm not getting caught up in any of that."

Ryan is now the only Aussie competing in the English top flight following the surprise departure of Aaron Mooy to China.

Ryan admitted his surprise at the move and believes Albion will miss his Socceroo teammate.

"He kept that to himself," added Ryan, who only found out when they reported back for pre-season training. "I was thinking, 'where is he? 'So I sent him a message and that's when he said to me that it looks like he was leaving.

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"It's unfortunate to see him go because he was a key player for us and made the difference on many occasions and he'll be missed.

"I've seen he's copped a bit of stick for the decision as a lot of people do in these circumstances - an Australian going back to what is perceived as a lesser league, but honestly I have nothing against his decision.

"He's trying to do what's best for him and his family and the type of player, person and professional he is ... I wouldn't be surprised at all if his level stays the same or if he improves even more."