Arsenal exploring shock deal to sign Brentford goalkeeper David Raya

Arsenal are exploring a shock deal to bring in Brentford goalkeeper David Raya with Mikel Arteta a long-time admirer of his compatriot, according to reports.

The Gunners already have Aaron Ramsdale as their number one between the sticks, with American Matt Turner acting as understudy to the England international.

But, according to The Athletic, Arteta wants to bring in higher quality cover and competition for Ramsdale and is looking to make a late swoop for Raya.

Raya’s Contract with Brentford

The Spaniard’s contract with Brentford expires next summer and he has made it clear he will not be renewing his deal, with the west London club keen to cash in this summer.

They have resolutely stuck to a price tag of £40million, a fee that prompted Tottenham to back away from talks earlier this summer and sign Empoli’s Guglielmo Vicario for less than half that price instead.

Brentford have already signed a replacement for Raya in the shape of Mark Flekken, who started their last pre-season friendly against Brighton.

Competition for Raya’s Signature

Bayern Munich, who are on the verge of selling Yann Sommer to Inter Milan, are also keen to sign Raya, though their preference is to secure a loan deal.

Despite Ramsdale’s presence as Arsenal’s number one, Raya is thought to prefer a move to north London over Bavaria.

Arsenal’s Previous Interest in Raya

The Gunners actually tried to sign the Spain international before they moved for Ramsdale, with the 27-year-old having been recommended by goalkeeper coach Inaki Cana – who worked with his compatriot at Brentford.

According to Fabrizio Romano, talks between Bayern and Brentford are actually in danger of collapsing with the German champions only able to propose a loan plus buy option.

Brentford would either want a guaranteed fee or for Raya to sign an extension before going out on loan.

Potential Move for Matt Turner

Should Arsenal step up their interest in Raya it could open up a move for Turner, with Nottingham Forest keen to bring the USA goalkeeper in as one of two new additions between the sticks this summer.

Brentford Manager Thomas Frank on Raya

Asked about Raya’s future on Saturday, Brentford manager Thomas Frank said: ‘He is a Brentford player so far as I know. It is an open secret we want to sell him for the right amount.

‘He has been training hard, a good professional. He has been a top I can’t praise him enough. Incredibly good in terms of being a top pro, training well and really, really good and positive.

‘I think it’s natural that he would like to leave if it’s a good opportunity for him. We all think it’s a good idea at the right price. That means probably means it is probably going towards that and we are focusing on the other keepers we have. It is a good dialogue and everything is in a fine place.’

Conclusion

Arsenal are exploring a shock deal to bring in Brentford goalkeeper David Raya with Mikel Arteta a long-time admirer of his compatriot. Bayern Munich are also keen to sign Raya, though their preference is to secure a loan deal. Should Arsenal step up their interest in Raya it could open up a move for Turner, with Nottingham Forest keen to bring the USA goalkeeper in as one of two new additions between the sticks this summer. It remains to be seen whether Arsenal will make a move for Raya or if Bayern Munich will be successful in their pursuit of the Spanish goalkeeper.