Transfer News: Arsenal in talks with Brentford to sign David Raya

Arsenal have expressed their interest in Brentford goalkeeper David Raya as they prepare for life without Emiliano Martinez next season.

According to 90min, Arsenal have set their sights on David Raya. They have contacted Brentford regarding a potential move for the Spanish goalkeeper, who has been identified as an ideal replacement for the wantaway star Emiliano Martinez.

After seeing Ollie Watkins move to Aston Villa, Brentford are not keen on offloading Raya this summer. But having missed out on promotion last season, they could be forced to sell their prized goalkeeper, as well as, Said Benrahma if their asking price is met. Meanwhile, Raya himself is open to a move away from Griffin Park, which could serve as a major boost for Arsenal.

The Gunners are currently facing a delicate situation in the goalkeeping department. Their second choice goalkeeper Martinez is not willing to continue playing second-fiddle to Bernd Leno following a remarkable run of form during the back end of last season that helped the club seal the FA Cup.

Martinez was, in fact, the best performing goalkeeper in the Premier League since Leno’s injury, boasting a save percentage of almost 80%. As a result, he has been linked with a move away from the Emirates, with Leeds United among the clubs chasing his services this summer.

Arsenal, meanwhile, are not willing to put Martinez ahead of Leno. But on the flip side, manager Mikel Arteta is also desperate to sign a back-up for the German and that is where Raya comes into the fray.

The Brentford goalkeeper is reportedly leading Arsenal’s list of potential replacements for Martinez, which isn’t surprising at all as he was one of Championship’s best-performing goalkeepers last season.

Having moved to Griffin Park only last summer, the 24-year-old enjoyed a solid campaign, notably featuring in all of Brentford’s league games. And while he couldn’t help the Bees secure promotion, he did keep 16 clean sheets. It proved crucial for Thomas Frank, whose attack-oriented style of play made his defence quite vulnerable at times.

Raya, therefore, is a viable target for Arsenal, who can provide him with the opportunity to showcase his talents in the Premier League. The lack of game time that comes with it, however, could be detrimental for the Spaniard’s own development.