Arsenal have completed the permanent signing of goalkeeper David Raya from Brentford for a fee of £27 million. Raya, who spent the 2023-24 season on loan with the Gunners, has now officially joined the club on a long-term contract.
The 28-year-old Spanish international was instrumental in Arsenal’s success last season, winning the Premier League Golden Glove after keeping 16 clean sheets in the league and 20 across all competitions. His performances helped the Gunners finish as runners-up in the Premier League and reach the Champions League quarter-finals.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta praised Raya’s impact, stating that he is “a big presence in our dressing room” and that the club is “really pleased to keep working with him.” Arteta promoted Raya to the starting goalkeeper role ahead of Aaron Ramsdale last season.
Sporting director Edu also expressed his delight at securing Raya’s permanent signing, calling it “another strong example of our recruitment strategy in action.” He highlighted Raya’s talent, professionalism, and popularity within the club.
With Raya now officially an Arsenal player, the future of Ramsdale remains uncertain. The 26-year-old England international made just 11 appearances last season after losing his place to Raya. While Arsenal do not want to lose Ramsdale, they would understand if he desires more regular first-team football, potentially through a loan move. Ramsdale’s future is expected to be resolved after the upcoming Euro 2024 tournament, where he is part of England’s squad.
The 2024 summer transfer window in the Premier League and Scottish Premiership is now open, with the window set to close on August 30 at 11 pm UK time in England and 11:30 pm in Scotland.
🚨🔴⚪️ Understand Arsenal have now formally activated the buy option for David Raya from Brentford.
AdvertisementHe’s Arsenal player on permanent deal for £27m as planned; it was already decided and now completed.
Formal statement to follow but all done for Raya as key part of #AFC project. pic.twitter.com/v6adwjRQhT
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 1, 2024
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