Premier Legend Peter Schmeichel cannot understand why Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has decided to sign Brentford goalkeeper David Raya this summer.
Arsenal already have Aaron Ramsdale in their ranks, but that has not stopped them from making a move for David Raya. According to The Athletic, the Gunners are set to bring the 27-year-old in on loan with an option to buy.
It is a decision that has completely baffled Schmeichel, who was recently speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live.
On Arsenal’s decision to sign Raya, the former Manchester United goalkeeper said: “I don’t understand why Arteta will create this potential problem because it could be a problem. I don’t understand why he’s doing that.”
Raya also attracted interest from Arsenal’s north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur earlier in the summer. Back in June, Sky Sports claimed that they were keen on the Spaniard, but it now looks like he is heading to their neighbours.
Tottenham would have been the safer move for David Raya
With Hugo Lloris unlikely to be at Tottenham after the transfer window, the No.1 spot is there to take.
The Frenchman told Nice-Matin in June that he wants a new challenge and refused to rule out a return to former club Nice.
Ultimately, had Raya gone to Spurs, the Brentford man would have become Ange Postecoglou’s first-choice goalkeeper. In the end, though, they could not get a deal done and have now signed Guglielmo Vicario instead.
Raya will still probably be more than happy with a switch to Arsenal, however. He is joining another top team and will get the chance to play in the Champions League.
There is always the possibility that he ousts Ramsdale out of the Gunners’ starting XI as well. So for someone who is clearly seeking a new challenge, this transfer does make some sense.
It can still be deemed as a bit of a risk, though, with there being no guarantees that Raya will become Arsenal’s No.1.
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