Arsenal continue summer revamp as Raya leaves the Bees' hive

Danny Ryan
LiveScore
Arsenal have bolstered their goalkeeping department with the loan signing of David Raya
Arsenal have bolstered their goalkeeping department with the loan signing of David Raya

Arsenal have continued their summer revamp by signing David Raya on a season-long loan from Brentford.

The Spanish goalkeeper is the Gunners' fourth major addition following the arrivals of Kai Havertz, Jurrien Timber and Declan Rice.

Raya, 27, said: "I'm over the moon to be able to take this challenge in my career and make the step up.

"The way the club is going, it's growing even more so it's a beautiful challenge to take. I couldn't say no."

Arsenal sporting director Edu added: "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 joins Arsenal on a temporary basis but the the Premier League runners-up have the option to sign him permanently should he impress this term.

Before switching to the Emirates, the former Blackburn keeper agreed a two-year extension with Brentford, who can add a further 12 months should they wish. 

That will prevent Arsenal from landing him for free next summer when his deal was due to end and allows the Bees to receive a potentially substantial transfer fee.

Raya replaces Matt Turner, who recently completed a £10million move to Nottingham Forest, to challenge Aaron Ramsdale as Mikel Arteta's first-choice stopper. 

He established himself as one of the Premier League's best keepers last season, making the most saves in the division with 154 and keeping 12 clean sheets as the Bees finished ninth. 

Having joined Brentford from Blackburn in July 2019, Raya was previously linked with Tottenham.

But Spurs were unwilling to match the Bees' valuation of the player and withdrew their interest, despite reportedly agreeing personal terms.

Raya has been handed the No22 shirt and will push Ramsdale all the way as Arsenal look to dethrone Manchester City.

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ArsenalBrentfordPremier LeagueDavid Raya