Arsenal remain firmly interested in Brentford goalkeeper David Raya, according to James McNicholas The Athletic. The goalkeeper continues to catch the eye of Arsenal scouts with a string of excellent performances in the Championship.
The Gunners could ramp up their interest further with goalkeeper Matt Macey set to depart the Emirates in the coming days.
Macey is set to complete a move to Scottish Premiership side Hibernian. The move is permanent and would bring an end to Macey’s seven years with the Gunners.
David Raya Remains a Transfer Target for Arsenal
Raya Has Been a Fixture in the Brentford Team
Mikel Arteta remains an admirer of the Brentford goalkeeper. Raya has impressed once again this season helping Brentford establish themselves as promotion contenders.
Arsenal were chasing the keeper in the summer and Raya even handed in a transfer request. He was the primary target to replace Emiliano Martinez, who left for Aston Villa. However, Brentford stood firm and made their intentions clear from the start. It’s unlikely their stance will change in this window with Brentford battling for promotion.
Raya has seven clean sheets this season, conceding just 21 times in the Championship. Only five sides have conceded fewer than the Bees this season. Raya has been consistent at Championship level for several seasons and the Premier League would be a step up.
Should Arsenal pursue a deal, Raya will compete with current keepers Bernd Leno and Alex Runar Runarsson. He would certainly add fierce competition but it would take a serious offer for Brentford to consider selling in this window.
Matt Macey Set for Permanent Arsenal Exit
Arsenal’s interest in Raya could intensify once the departure of Matt Macey is confirmed. The keeper who has made a handful of appearances for the Gunners is set to join Hibernian in the next few days.
Macey has spent seven years at Arsenal having started his career at Bristol Rovers. He has been the third choice this campaign and a move to Scotland offers a fresh start and regular football.
Macey could come straight into the Hibs team for their clash with Celtic with current number Ofir Marciano an injury doubt.
Macey’s departure would leave Arsenal with two senior goalkeepers. Dejan Iliev could become Arsenal’s third-choice goalkeeper with the 25-year-old set to return from a loan spell at Shrewsbury Town. Arteta may also look at teenager keepers Karl Hein and Arthur Okonkwo.
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