David Raya is set to join Arsenal on a permanent basis, according to The Athletic journalist David Ornstein.
The Gunners signed the Spanish international on loan in the summer, paying £3m upfront, but an option to buy the keeper for £27m was included in the agreement. Asked whether the London club can still back out of the deal, Ornstein said that is not on the cards:
“I’m pretty sure there’s an understanding (at the very least) between the club that when Arsenal are in a financial position to turn the deal permanent they have to do so.”
Raya was set to move to the Emirates on a permanent deal in August but, to comply with Financial Fair Play rules, it was changed into a loan.
From the sound of things, though, there is some sort of gentleman’s agreement in place that means the purchase option will be triggered next summer. For all intents and purposes, it appears to be an obligation to buy.
The news won’t please many Arsenal fans
Raya’s performances have not been too impressive since he sealed his switch to North London. The Spaniard currently has the worst save percentage in the Premier League.
While there is still time for the 28-year-old to improve on his bad start to the season, he certainly hasn’t won over the supporters so far.
What does Raya’s situation mean for Aaron Ramsdale?
The England international may have hoped that Raya’s poor form would have led to him being recalled to the starting eleven. However, manager Mikel Arteta looks like he will keep faith with his current no.1.
With Raya now poised to remain with the Gunners beyond the end of the season, it may hasten Ramsdale’s departure from the club.
