Arsenal has expressed their interest in signing Brentford goalkeeper David Raya, aiming to compete with Aaron Ramsdale for the No. 1 spot. Talks about the potential transfer are ongoing, with the Gunners weighing their options before formalizing their bid. Arsenal previously attempted to secure Raya's services in the summer of 2020 but faced rejection on several offers.
Brentford values Raya, a Spain international, at £40m, with manager Thomas Frank believing the price is justified when compared to other transfers this summer. The 27-year-old has a year remaining on his contract with Brentford and has expressed his readiness to take the next step in his career.
The pursuit of Raya by Arsenal is partly attributed to their goalkeeping coach, Inaka Cana, who played a significant role in Raya joining Brentford from Blackburn in 2019. Both Cana and Raya were born in Barcelona, and their connection goes back to Raya's youth days at Cornella, a team based in Barca. Raya has spoken highly of Cana's coaching style and influence on his development.
The relationship between Cana and Raya remains strong, even after Cana's move to Arsenal in December 2019. It is believed that Arsenal and Cana see Raya as a fitting addition to Mikel Arteta's team, especially due to his passing ability and comfort with playing out from the back.
Bayern Munich has also shown interest in Raya, but negotiations have not met Brentford's valuation for the player. The German club proposed an initial loan deal, but both Brentford and Raya are not interested in this option, given his remaining contract duration.
Raya's outstanding performance last season stands out, as he was the most frequently used goalkeeper by both his teammates and the opposition. He faced the most shots, made the most saves, claimed the second-most crosses, had more touches, and completed the most passes among all top-flight goalkeepers.
Nottingham Forest is also reportedly in talks to sign Matt Turner, Arsenal's back-up goalkeeper, and Manchester United's Dean Henderson, with discussions centering around a loan with an obligation to buy.
Despite signing a new goalkeeper, Mark Flekken, to compete with Thomas Strakosha, Brentford is willing to retain three top goalkeepers if their valuation of Raya is not met.
As negotiations continue, Arsenal and Bayern Munich are eager to bolster their goalkeeping options, with Raya being a coveted talent in the market.
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