Brentford goalkeeper David Raya was enthusiastic about joining Arsenal in 2020 when the Gunners wanted to sign him.
According to a report from The Telegraph, Arsenal had a genuine interest in David Raya back then and the 27-year-old was “hugely excited” by the prospect of joining the north London club.
They were obviously not able to sign the Spaniard but have him on their radar again, with Mikel Arteta looking to bring in another shot-stopper.
The reliable Fabrizio Romano recently shared on Twitter that Raya has reached an agreement in principle with Arsenal over personal terms ahead of a potential move to the Emirates.
David Raya is a top goalkeeper, but do Arsenal need him?
Last season, Raya was one of the best No.1s in the Premier League. He made 154 saves, which was the most in the English top flight (FBref).
Journalist Dan Bardell, speaking on Sky Sports, described the Spain international as a “tremendous shot-stopper”, and it was easy to see why.
Nevertheless, you would have to question whether the Gunners actually need Raya. The answer is probably not.
They already have Aaron Ramsdale, who is also a very good goalkeeper. The England international kept 14 Premier League clean sheets last term as he helped his side go toe-to-toe with Manchester City for the title.
With that in mind, it makes more sense for Arsenal to go out and buy a No.2.
There is no way that Arteta is going to be able to keep both Ramsdale and Raya happy, so it really will be interesting to see what happens if the Brentford man is bought.
If the Premier League outfit are going to close the gap with City and win the title, then yes, they have to continue strengthening their squad. But between the sticks should not be a priority for them right now.
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