Arsenal announce first summer signing but it was never in doubt

Arsenal have completed the permanent signing of Brentford’s David Raya following his successful loan spell last season.

The Spaniard has signed a long-term deal to become the Gunners’ first official senior signing of the summer.

The 28-year-old played a key role in Arsenal’s closely-fought Premier League title challenge, making 41 appearances across all competitions and keeping 20 clean sheets to scoop the Golden Glove award.

Raya usurped former No.1 Aaron Ramsdale and rarely looked like relinquishing his spot with a succession of fine displays.

He is currently part of the Spain squad at Euro 2024 which will play hosts Germany in the quarter-finals on Friday, live on talkSPORT.

Reacting to his permanent switch to north London, which was lined-up from the beginning of his loan deal, Raya admits it is a dream come true to officially be an Arsenal player.

“After a year on loan as a Gunner, I can finally say that I’m an Arsenal player for the coming years,” he told Arsenal club media.

“I’m excited to see what the future holds but always living in and enjoying the present.

“It’s a dream come true to be here and I want to thank you for all the support you have already given me throughout the last year.”

Arsenal sporting director Edu said: “We are so happy to have completed the deal to sign David from Brentford.

“He had a beautiful first season with us, winning the Premier League Golden Glove. He is a talented international, a great professional and a popular figure at the club. We benefited from all of this last season during his loan with us.

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“David’s signing is another strong example of our recruitment strategy in action, as we continue to build a team that will challenge for major trophies.

“We know there’s so much more to come from him and we are excited that he will continue to be a big part of the journey we are all on.”

Manager Mikel Arteta expressed his delight in seeing Raya commit to the Gunners for the long term and highlighted his importance to the team. 

“David showed us last season what an important player he is for us, so we are delighted he is now officially our player,” said the Arsenal boss.

“He is a big presence in our dressing-room and we are really pleased to keep working with him.

“We know he will take the strong foundations he put in place last season and build on them in the years to come, and that he will enjoy more success with us.

“We have a very talented group of goalkeepers and I love to see connections like the one I see in our goalkeeping unit.”

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