According to confirmed reports, Arsenal have completed the signing of Brentford goalkeeper David Raya on a season-long loan deal. Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich were the previous favourites to sign the Spanish goalkeeper, but the Gunners swooped in quick to secure the deal.
With Matt Turner moving to Nottingham Forest, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta set his sights on signing a new goalie to replace the outgoing USMNT international. The Spanish manager wanted to bring in a shot-stopper who could challenge Aaron Ramsdale for a place in the starting lineup.
David Raya is a modern-day goalkeeper who is comfortable with the ball at his feet. The trend of ball-playing keepers is at its peak as Manchester United also recently signed Andre Onana. Arteta must have paid attention to United’s gameplay in the pre-season and seen what impact Onana has had on their gameplay.
According to Sky Sports, Arsenal have signed David Raya from Brentford on a loan deal with an option to buy. The Spanish shot-stopper has moved to the Emirates on an initial loan fee of £3m. The Gunners have the option to make the signing permanent for another £27m next summer.
However, the £27m option to buy could turn into an obligation to buy depending on certain conditions, primarily appearances. FFP constraints compelled the North London side to take the loan route with Brentford, having spent in excess of £200 million already this summer.
Raya arrives ???? pic.twitter.com/2UaPiDDp33
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) August 15, 2023
Aaron Ramsdale is not the worst goalkeeper when it comes to ball distribution but he’s also not the best. Rivals of Arsenal have placed emphasis on signing ball-playing keepers to help their defensive line. Arteta must have felt the need to replicate that since it could be a move closer to winning the Premier League.
The signings of Kai Havertz, Jurrien Timber and Declan Rice have already made them a fearsome side. Nevertheless, a goalkeeper who can help the defence is greatly appreciated, especially with the attack already sorted out for the Gunners.
Why Have Arsenal Suddenly Added David Raya to Their Team?
Manchester United have signed Andre Onana who is one of the best ball-playing keepers in the world. His impact was instantly seen in the pre-season matches against Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund, despite United facing losses on both occasions. Both Manchester City and Liverpool have goalkeepers who are excellent in distribution.
You've got a good one, @Arsenal
Best of luck, @daviidraya1 ???? pic.twitter.com/dzY7blwO3B
— Brentford FC (@BrentfordFC) August 15, 2023
Arsenal fell short of eventual champions Man City in the Premier League last season, failing to sustain their title charge in the final few games of the season. The Gunners have recruited brilliantly and now have depth in almost every position. However, they lacked a keeper who could challenge Aaron Ramsdale for the No.1 spot. They needed a keeper who has a different playing style to that of the Englishman.
The 27-year-old keeper from Brentford is one of the best options in the world right now when it comes to ball-playing. The German champions were negotiating for David Raya but Arsenal were quick enough to snatch him away. The Spanish keeper also preferred a move to the Emirates maybe because he wants to stay in the Premier League.
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David Raya also fits right into Mikel Arteta’s plans for Arsenal. The Gunners are known for their beautiful football and the manager prefers to build from the back. With a keeper like the Spaniard, Arteta can execute his plans more accurately. He will have a player who he trusts more on the ball than Aaron Ramsdale.
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