Overview
- Arteta said he tried to sign Raya as soon as he took charge in 2019 and that the move ultimately came two years later than planned.
- Arsenal’s earlier push included bids of around £10m, with a reported £10m clause voided when Brentford won promotion in 2021.
- After missing out, Arsenal signed Runar Alex Runarsson for about £1.5m and later brought in Aaron Ramsdale, who replaced Bernd Leno.
- Raya joined on loan from Brentford in August 2023 before the transfer was made permanent last year for £27m, establishing him as first choice.
- Arteta called Raya an amazing goalkeeper and said he is taking Arsenal to a different level, noting the keeper’s consecutive Premier League Golden Gloves.