Arsenal have confirmed the signing of Brentford goalkeeper David Raya on an initial one year loan, with the option to make the move permanent at the end of the season.
Raya will provide competition for current no.1 Aaron Ramsdale, who welcomed the addition ahead of the Community Shield final, simply saying “bring it on”.
The deal is an initial loan, for which Arsenal will pay £3m, alongside an option to buy the Spaniard for £27m next summer, which is understood to be likely to be activated. However, Raya has extended his contract with the Bees so that if it isn’t, Brentford will remain in the same position as they were this summer.
Raya arrives 🧤 pic.twitter.com/2UaPiDDp33
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) August 15, 2023
Arsenal Sporting Director Edu said: “We welcome David to us on a season-long loan from Brentford. David is a top-quality goalkeeper, who has consistently performed to a high level with Brentford in the Premier League. With David joining us we are adding quality and depth to our squad so we can perform at the highest possible level in all competitions.”
Raya has taken the no.22 shirt in north London, last warn by Pablo Mari, who has since joined Monza on a permanent deal.
Attention will continue to be on sales, though a serious knee injury to Jurrien Timber has meant that Arsenal will also be in the market for a new defender for the remainder of the transfer window, in addition to the much-sought cover and competition for Bukayo Saka.
