Arsenal make final decision on permanent David Raya transfer

The Spanish goalkeeper has quickly established himself as Arsenal’s No.1 after a loan move in the summer.

Arsenal have reportedly decided to make David Raya’s move from Brentford permanent next summer.

Raya attracted interest from a number of elite clubs after his brilliant performances last season. Bayern Munich came close to signing the Spaniard on a loan deal, but he preferred to stay in the Premier League, completing a loan switch to Arsenal.

Despite facing competition from Aaron Ramsdale, Raya has managed to establish himself as Arsenal’s new No.1, making 12 starts for the Gunners so far this season.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal have already decided to trigger their £27m option to sign Raya permanently next summer. The Gunners have already reached a personal agreement with the 28-year-old over a long-term deal.

Raya’s excellent start at Arsenal has limited Ramsdale’s playing time ahead of the next year’s European Championship. While a January exit is unlikely, a move in the summer could be a real possibility for the English keeper.

Raya will face his former side when Arsenal take on Brentford in a Premier League match on Saturday. The Gunners will then continue their Champions League campaign with a home game against Lens four days later.