Brentford goalkeeper David Raya is close to joining Arsenal, according to David Ornstein.

Throughout the summer, there was speculation about whether the Spanish goalkeeper would sign a new deal with Brentford.

Arsenal, on the other hand, has showed interest in recent weeks, and the deal is now nearing completion.

According to Ornstein of The Athletic, the Gunners are now likely to sign the Spaniard to compete with Aaron Ramsdale – but with a twist.

Raya ‘set to join Arsenal’

Various sources indicated that Arsenal were willing to spend up to £40 million for Raya, but that does not appear to be the case – at least for the time being.

According to Ornstein, the transfer would be a loan for which Arsenal will pay Brentford a fee of £3 million.

However, at the end of the loan, the north London club would have the opportunity to purchase Raya for £27 million.

Some Arsenal fans were concerned about the purchase because the club would have two high-quality goalkeepers competing for the same position.

However, the loan option allows Arsenal to review the situation over the course of the season and re-evaluate next summer if necessary.

Raya’s contract at Brentford will be extended ahead of the transfer, according to Ornstein, with his present agreement set to expire at the end of the current season. If it is not renewed, the £27 million option becomes null and void.

He will now fight with Ramsdale for a place in Arsenal’s starting XI, but given the Gunners’ commitments in several competitions, he can expect to play a number of games regardless of his position this season.