Arsenal has successfully finalized the acquisition of Brentford goalkeeper David Raya on a temporary loan worth £3 million, while also securing an option for a permanent move valued at £27 million.
The 27-year-old Spanish international, highly recommended by goalkeeping coach Inaki Cana, reunites with Cana after their successful stint together at Brentford.
Raya’s exceptional ability to play out from the back and manipulate the ball with his feet provides him with a distinct advantage over England’s Aaron Ramsdale in the race to become Mikel Arteta’s preferred choice.
As the Gunners prepare to return to the Champions League following a six-year hiatus, Arteta aims to recruit a keeper who is adept at venturing beyond his penalty area to cover the space behind the defensive line while maintaining accurate passing skills to counteract high-pressing opponents.
While Arsenal had no intentions of acquiring another goalkeeper this summer after offering Ramsdale a lucrative five-year contract in May, the opportunity to secure Raya arose, leading to a change in plans. The Gunners realized the potential and value that Raya would bring to the team.
Initially, Brentford demanded £40 million for Raya, considering his crucial role in their squad and his affordable £2 million transfer fee from Blackburn in 2019. This price tag deterred interest from other clubs, including Spurs and Manchester United, despite Raya having only one year remaining on his contract.
Raya expressed his strong desire to join Arsenal and work alongside Cana, making it clear to Brentford manager Thomas Frank that he would not consider another club. Consequently, an agreeable compromise was reached between the two clubs. Raya would sign a new contract with Brentford but retain the opportunity to make a permanent move to Arsenal next summer, pending favorable circumstances at the Emirates.
Raya’s immediate inclusion in Arsenal’s matchday squad for their upcoming clash against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park showcases the Gunners’ confidence in his abilities. The team initiated their Premier League campaign with a 2-1 victory over Nottingham Forest last Saturday, setting a positive tone for the season ahead.