Arsenal has reportedly reached an agreement with Brentford for the transfer of Spanish goalkeeper David Raya, a deal expected to be finalized before the Premier League opener. The 27-year-old is set to undergo a medical assessment at the club's London Colney training center this week, as he prepares to transition to the Emirates.
While personal terms were agreed upon between Arsenal and Raya last week, negotiations concerning the transfer fee with Brentford had been ongoing. However, the latest developments indicate that the necessary documents will soon be exchanged to complete the signing, as shared by Fabrizio Romano. Upon joining Arsenal, Raya is anticipated to ink a five-year contract, binding him to the club until the summer of 2028.
Despite interest from Bayern Munich and Tottenham, Brentford turned down offers for Raya due to their £40 million valuation. Raya's desire to depart the club this summer prompted Brentford to swiftly secure a replacement, signing Mark Flekken from Bundesliga outfit Freiburg.
Having seen minimal action during the pre-season, Raya's limited involvement with Brentford, including a single 45-minute appearance against Fulham in the Premier League's Summer Series in America, reinforced his eagerness for a new challenge. As Brentford's season opener approaches, the club opted to reach an agreement rather than risk Raya's potential bench role and subsequent departure on a free transfer next year. Consequently, Arsenal managed to secure Raya's services for a reported fee of £30 million, a notable reduction from the initial £40 million demand.
Raya's arrival at Arsenal introduces healthy competition for the position of the club's primary goalkeeper, currently held by Aaron Ramsdale. Ramsdale's impressive performance in Arsenal's recent Community Shield victory over Manchester City, marked by crucial close-range saves, showcased his capabilities.
Nevertheless, Ramsdale now faces the prospect of contending with a highly competent goalkeeper in Raya, both vying for a starting spot under the management of Mikel Arteta. As both goalkeepers harbor aspirations of representing their respective nations in the upcoming European Championships, the competition for the starting position promises to be intense.
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