Arsenal handed major boost in David Raya pursuit?

Brentford could reportedly compromise on their £40m asking price for Arsenal target David Raya.

The Spaniard has been linked with a move away throughout the summer transfer window after turning down the chance to extend his deal with the Bees.

Raya, who has entered the final 12 months of his contract, has attracted interest from a number of potential suitors.

Tottenham Hotspur were believed to be showing an interest earlier in the window but were put off by Brentford's asking price.

Raya was also considered a potential target for Bayern Munich, who wanted to sign him on an initial season-long loan deal with an option to make the move permanent.

© Reuters

A move to the German champions ultimately broke down, paving the way for the Gunners to enter the race for his signature.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is seemingly keen to sign Raya as a backup to his first-choice goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale.

Arteta reportedly has doubts over Ramsdale's current deputy Matt Turner, who has been linked with a move to Nottingham Forest.

Brentford boss Thomas Frank recently indicated that the club would be looking to receive £40m to part ways with the 27-year-old.

However, according to the Daily Mail, the Bees could soften their stance and reach a compromise over their valuation.

© Reuters

The report confirms that Brentford will reject Arsenal's opening offer of £23m plus add-ons, but they could accept a bid in the region of £30m.

Since joining the Bees from Blackburn Rovers in 2019, Raya has gone on to make 161 appearances across all competitions.

Raya played in all 38 Premier League games for Brentford last season, keeping 12 clean sheets to help his team finish in ninth place.

Brentford have already signed a replacement for Raya in the shape of Netherlands international Mark Flekken, who joined in a £11m deal from Freiburg earlier this summer.