Arsenal are very close to completing the signing of David Raya from Brentford, reports Fabrizio Romano. The Spaniard has been linked to the Gunners for a few weeks now, and according to the Italian journalist, it is “only a matter of time” before the deal is signed. The London-based side is looking to bring a solid backup option to Aaron Ramsdale and give more competition to the English shot-stopper.
David Raya ‘Really Close’ to Signing for the Gunners
Only Final Details to Be Ironed Out
The North London club is set to complete their fourth signing of the summer transfer window. Romano reports that it is only a matter of time before the deal is officially signed. The talks are still ongoing between the clubs to finalize the details of the transfer.
The 27-year-old had already agreed to personal terms with the three-time Premier League champions, and only the agreement between the clubs was pending, which is “imminent”.
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The journalist said in the video on his Youtube channel, “Now it’s only a matter of time. The conversation is ongoing between Arsenal and Brentford to close the deal, so, Raya to Arsenal is imminent. Waiting on final details of the deal to be discussed.”
Tough Competition for Ramsdale
Ramsdale has been the undoubted number one for Mikel Arteta’s side ever since joining from Sheffield United in August 2021. The club’s current backup goalkeeper, Matt Turner, failed to pose a real threat to the 25-year-old’s starting berth between the sticks.
The arrival of the former Blackburn Rovers man is expected to bring more competition in the goalkeeping position at the Emirates. Although Ramsdale is still expected to be the number one goalkeeper, he will have to be on his toes and perform at his best to avoid losing his place to the seasoned new arrival.
How Good Is David Raya and How Does He Fit Into Arteta’s Setup
The Spaniard’s biggest asset is his ability and confidence on the ball. He is exceptional with his distribution and can hit a floating ball as well as a driven goal-kick towards his teammate. He is also capable of creating passing angles from his box to initiate attacks from the back.
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The acrobatic custodian could be an asset for Arteta’s possession-dominant side which tends to build attacks from the back. He is a dominant presence in the box and is not afraid to come off his line and act as a sweeper-keeper. He has been described by some as “one of the premier league’s best” goalkeepers.
These qualities make him a perfect fit for the North Londoners’ style of play. The transfer is expected to be wrapped up in coming days and it remains to be seen if he can dethrone the Arsenal number one and stamp a claim on the starting place between the sticks.
Featured Image: Lloyd Morgan, CC BY-SA 2.0.
