David Raya has responded to Arsenal and Everton’s interest from the past two summers while stating he harbours a dream of playing with the big boys.
During Mikel Arteta’s first summer window, he requested the club sign David Raya to replace Emiliano Martinez. However, when Brentford quoted a high price for the Spanish goalkeeper, the Gunners responded with the underwhelming signing of Runar Alex Runarsson.
Arsenal reportedly tried again this summer, although Brentford raised the asking price after their promotion to the Premier League. On the opening day of the new season, Raya precisely showed Arteta what he missed out on with a fantastic performance, keeping a clean sheet in the process.
Arsenal did rectify their issues by signing Aaron Ramsdale and have found a proper solution and competition for Bernd Leno. With the German expected to leave next summer or in January, the Gunners are expected to retain an interest in the Spaniard.
Everton showed interest in Raya but opted to sign Asmir Begovic on a free transfer to provide backup to Jordan Pickford. Meanwhile, Raya and his Brentford teammates have taken the Premier League by storm, showing the confidence rarely seen previously in a newly-promoted side.
In an exclusive interview with Madrid based publication Cedena Ser, Raya outlined everything about himself and Brentford this season. He also addressed the interest from Arsenal and Everton while laying down his ambitions for the future in brief.
Raya said, “I am happy at the club. I want to have a good season this year. In summer we will see what happens. My ambitions are great; I would like to play at the top. You always want to play for big clubs. “
As things stand, Raya’s good performances will keep attracting the interest of top clubs from the next window onwards, including that of Arsenal, who will have to replace Leno. However, with Ramsdale now cementing his position as the club’s undisputed no.1, it is hard to see Mikel Arteta bring in another possible first-choice keeper.
