Summer arrival David Raya is reportedly edging closer to receiving a first-team opportunity at Arsenal.
During the transfer window, the Spanish goalkeeper made the decision to swap Brentford for the Emirates Stadium, despite the possibility of becoming deputy to Aaron Ramsdale.
The Englishman has generally impressed since joining from Sheffield United in 2021, making a total of 83 appearances in all competitions.
However, Mikel Arteta acquired the services of Raya to increase competition for the 25-year-old, who had previously been regarded as undisputed number one ahead of Matt Turner.
Ramsdale has kept one clean sheet in his opening four appearances this season, with that shutout coming away at Crystal Palace, but he has not always looked assured between the sticks.
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According to the Daily Mail, consideration is being given to Raya being provided with a chance over the coming weeks.
Up until now, Raya has had to remain patient and retain the mindset that Arteta may not necessarily start him for the majority of cup fixtures.
With Arsenal back in the Champions League, rotation is far less likely than it was when they were participating in the Europa League, something that may not play into the 27-year-old's favour.
Nevertheless, the report suggests that Arteta has been left impressed by Raya's performances and attitude in training, and it could lead to a reward.
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Arsenal play Everton, Tottenham Hotspur, Bournemouth and Manchester City in their next four league fixtures, and it is perhaps unlikely that Raya would be thrown into a North London derby or showdown with champions Man City without sufficient game time.
Featuring in the Champions League versus PSV Eindhoven or Lens is a possibility, while a meeting with Brentford in the EFL Cup is arguably his best chance.
That said, Raya is currently on loan from the Bees, and his parent club would need to give permission for him to feature in the tie.
Arsenal have the option of paying £27m for Raya at the end of the season, or it could become mandatory should he make a set number of appearances.
Darren Plant
