Arsenal Emerge as Surprise Suitors for Brentford Goalkeeper David Raya
Brentford goalkeeper David Raya, 27, is in high demand with Arsenal and Bayern Munich weighing up a move for the Spanish international. Raya has just one year remaining on his current contract and has refused to sign a new deal with the Bees, who are now eager to cash in on him in the summer transfer window. The London club are seeking a £40million asking price for Raya, but it remains to be seen whether either of the interested parties will meet their valuation.
Key Takeaways:
- David Raya, 27, is a Spanish international goalkeeper with over 150 appearances for Brentford, including a starring role in the Bees' two seasons in the top-flight.
- Raya has refused to sign a new contract with Brentford, who are now seeking a £40million asking price for him in the summer transfer window.
- Arsenal are interested in signing Raya to compete with Aaron Ramsdale for the No.1 berth in north London, and have emerged as surprise suitors despite initial interest from Manchester United and Tottenham.
- Bayern Munich are also believed to be interested in signing Raya, but prefer a loan deal only, giving Arsenal an edge.
- The Athletic has reported that Raya's preference would be to join Arsenal, and the club is expected to approach Brentford for talks in the coming days.
- Brentford head coach Thomas Frank has reiterated that Raya is free to leave the club for the right price, and has been training hard with the team.
- Arsenal have already spent heavily in the summer transfer window, with over £200m spent on signings for Declan Rice, Jurrien Timber, and Kai Havertz.
Statistics:
- £40million: Brentford's asking price for David Raya
- £200m+: Arsenal's total expenditure in the summer transfer window as of this report
- 150+: Number of appearances David Raya has made for Brentford in the top-flight
- 2021: The year Brentford won promotion to the Premier League and David Raya made his top-flight debut
Sources:
- "The Athletic"
- BBC Sport
- "Mirror Football"