Arsenal Transfers: Gunners to seal permanent deal for David Raya

Recent reports have emerged revealing that Arsenal will complete the permanent signing of David Raya in 2024.

Raya moved to Arsenal from Brentford earlier in the summer transfer window. However, due to Financial Fair Play (FFP) concerns, the Gunners signed the player on an initial season-long loan.

The Spaniard made his debut for Arsenal away at Everton at Goodison Park on 17 September. He has since displaced Aaron Ramsdale from his spot as Mikel Arteta’s first-choice goalkeeper.

Raya has made 12 appearances for the Gunners conceding on nine occasions. In terms of his profile, the goalkeeper is very secure with the ball at his feet and has incredible distribution. These are qualities we know Arteta highly values in a goalkeeper.

Arsenal to seal permanent deal for David Raya

When the Spanish goalkeeper switched over to north London in August, it was understood that there was an unofficial agreement to sign a deal until 2028.

Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has now revealed that Arsenal have opted to sign Raya permanently. “Understand Arsenal have decided to seal David Raya deal in 2024 — it’s all guaranteed as buy option clause will be triggered for £27m,” he wrote.

While Romano mentions that Arsenal have signed the goal on a long-term deal. There is no specific mention of the contract’s length.

There have been questions over the selection of Raya by many fans. The Spanish international has looked shaky at times since usurping Ramsdale, but the reason why Arteta chooses him to be the #1 in between the sticks is that his distribution is a massive influence in the build-up play.

The addition of Raya opens the door to the possibility of Ramsdale leaving the club. Both keepers are starting 11 quality and this signing gives the Gunners immense depth in the goalkeeping position. However, if Arteta is unable to balance the play-time, it seems inevitable that Ramsdale will leave the north London club.