Arsenal are poised to make their first major signing in what is expected to be a busy summer for the club.
Arsenal are expected to take formal steps to activate a £27million buy option clause for David Raya in the coming days. The plan, confirmed since the beginning, will see Raya remain as Arsenal’s goalkeeper. This move follows the club’s £3million loan fee paid last summer, solidifying their commitment to the player.
Raya is set to become Arsenal’s first signing of the summer. His permanent addition to the squad marks a crucial step in the club’s preparations for the new season, ensuring stability in their goalkeeping position. This decision underscores the club and in particular Mikel Arteta’s confidence in Raya’s abilitiy.
Raya will turn 29 in September and finished the season as the Premier League golden-glove winner. He has also been selected for Spain’s Euro 2024 squad.
With Aaron Ramsdale set to leave the club, Arsenal will likely need to secure a backup goalkeeper this summer. The arrival of a new backup will be essential to provide depth and competition for Raya. Identifying a reliable second-choice keeper will be a priority for Arsenal to ensure they are well-prepared for the challenges of the upcoming season.
Feyenoord stopper Justin Biljow is one name that has been linked as a possible Ramsdale replacement.