David Raya 'set to join Arsenal from Brentford' as surprise element included in deal

Brentford goalkeeper David Raya is closing in on a move to Arsenal, David Ornstein has reported.

The Spanish goalkeeper's future has been uncertain throughout the summer, with question marks over whether he would sign a new contract at Brentford.

However, Arsenal have expressed interest in recent weeks, and the move is now moving quickly to a conclusion.

According to Ornstein, writing for The Athletic, the Gunners are now set to sign the Spaniard to compete with Aaron Ramsdale - but with a surprise element attached.

Raya 'set to join Arsenal'

Various reports had claimed that the Gunners were prepared to pay up to £40 million for Raya, but that appears to not be the case - at least for now.

Ornstein reports that the deal is set to be a loan, for which Arsenal will pay Brentford a fee of £3 million.

However, the north London club will have an option to buy Raya for £27 million at the end of the loan.

Some Gunners fans had expressed concern over the deal, due to the fact that the club would have two high-quality goalkeepers fighting for the same position.

But the loan option gives Arsenal the opportunity to evaluate the situation over a full campaign, and re-assess next summer if required.

Ornstein claims that Raya will extend his contract at Brentford ahead of the transfer, with his current deal due to expire at the end of the current season. Were it not to be renewed, the £27 million option would effectively be voided.

He will now compete with Ramsdale for a spot in Arsenal's first-choice XI, although can expect to play a number of games regardless of his standing this season, given the Gunners' commitments in multiple competitions.

Raya will become Arsenal's fourth summer signing, after deals were completed for Declan Rice, Kai Havertz and Jurrien Timber.