Arsenal transfer news: The Gunners have two more marquee moves they want to make in the summer window after completing a deal for David Raya
Mikel Arteta has set his next two Arsenal transfer aims after David Raya finalised a move to become the Gunners fourth summer signing. Despite the presence of Aaron Ramsdale in the squad, Arsenal chose to enter the race for Raya after it became clear that Tottenham and Bayern Munich were no longer actively pursuing his services, with Brentford still looking to sell.
football.london understands that the Gunners will sign the 27-year-old on loan with an option to make the move permanent. The initial loan fee is said to be worth £3million with the deal including a £27million option to buy for Arsenal if all parties agree to the move. Raya has also extended his contract at the Gtech Community Stadium until 2025.
The £105million signing of Declan Rice saw Arsenal complete a triple transfer swoop with Jurrien Timber and Kai Havertz also acquired. Just over £200million being spent saw focus shift onto outgoings with Auston Trusty and Matt Turner having departures confirmed while Marquinhos and Charlie Patino are close to loan switches, however the Raya opportunity was too good to miss out on.
With that transfer finalised and Raya to complete his medical this week, more exits can now be sanctioned with Folarin Balogun, Kieran Tierney, Nicolas Pepe, Nuno Tavares and Albert Sambi Lokonga all facing that possibility. However, a new report has emerged revealing another arrival is planned if one of those names seals an exit.
According to the Independent, Arteta wants to bring in a new No.6 to add variety to his midfield if significant funds are acquired, which will likely arrive through the sale of Balogun. Romeo Lavia has been linked as an option in that department, although Chelsea have lodged their opening bid in an attempt to hijack Liverpool’s deal for the teenager.