Arsenal have confirmed the permanent signing of goalkeeper David Raya from Brentford on a long-term contract (h/t the club’s official website).
The move comes after Raya impressed on loan last season, playing a pivotal role in the Gunners’ runner-up finish in the Premier League and their run to the Champions League quarter-finals.
The 28-year-old Spaniard kept a remarkable 20 clean sheets across 41 appearances in all competitions, including 16 shut-outs in the league that earned him the Premier League Golden Glove.
Arsenal have secured Raya’s services for a reported £27 million, adding to the £3 million loan fee paid to Brentford last season.
Raya’s arrival throws Aaron Ramsdale’s future at the Emirates Stadium into question. The 26-year-old England international made just 11 appearances last season.
Arsenal are reluctant to lose Ramsdale, but they know he wants regular first-team football.
The Gunners are open to exploring options that benefit all parties involved. A loan move is not out of the picture, with Newcastle United reportedly showing interest.
However, there will be no definitive decision regarding Ramsdale’s future until after the ongoing European Championship, where he is currently part of England’s squad.
Raya becomes Arsenal’s first summer signing, and they are aiming to add reinforcements in defence, midfield and attack before the transfer window closes.
Signing number two could already be on the way, with Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori close to joining the club.
The arrival of the Italian international will likely force Arsenal’s Jakub Kiwior out of the club and back to Serie A, where he has suitors.
Calafiori will provide cover for Oleksandr Zinchenko at left-back and Gabriel Magalhaes at centre-back, and may dislodge one of them in the starting line-up.
