Arsenal have signed goalkeeper David Raya from Brentford on a permanent basis in a deal worth approximately £27 million.
Raya, who excelled during his loan spell at Arsenal last season, has now formally joined the Gunners, fulfilling an agreement made with Brentford last year.
David Raya’s initial move to north London in August was structured as a loan deal, costing Arsenal £3 million, with the expectation that it would transition into a permanent transfer worth £27 million.
This payment structure was designed for financial reasons, rather than any uncertainty on Arsenal’s part. At the start of a new financial cycle, Arsenal has now finalized the long-term signing of the Spanish goalkeeper.
During his loan spell, David Raya made 41 appearances across all competitions for Arsenal and was awarded the Premier League’s Golden Glove for keeping the most clean sheets in the division.
The 28-year-old also played a pivotal role in Arsenal’s Champions League campaign, particularly during their penalty shootout victory over Porto.
“David showed us last season what an important player he is for us, so we are delighted he is now officially our player,” said Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta.
“He is a big presence in our dressing room and we are really pleased to keep working with him. We know he will take the strong foundations he put in place last season and build on them in the years to come, and that he will enjoy more success with us.
“We have a very talented group of goalkeepers and I love to see connections like the one I see in our goalkeeping unit.”
