Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly edging closer to securing the services of goalkeeper David Raya, with negotiations over personal terms said to be at an advanced stage.
Spurs agrees personal terms with Raya
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has provided updates on the potential move, revealing that Tottenham have identified Raya as a top target following his impressive performances for Brentford, who finished ninth in the previous campaign.
The North London club, in search of a new goalkeeper, seem to have found their preferred choice in Raya, who has been a standout player for Brentford since their promotion in 2021.
With current first-choice goalkeeper Hugo Lloris facing criticism for his performances and having just over a year left on his contract, securing a new No. 1 has become a priority for Spurs.
Interestingly, this potential transfer is taking place even before the official start of new head coach Ange Postecoglou’s tenure at Tottenham.
Postecoglou, an Australian boss, is set to take charge in July and appears to be in a strong position to make his first signing with Raya.
EXCL: Tottenham are now on the verge of reaching an agreement with David Raya on personal terms. Long term contract, almost agreed after positive talks. 🚨⚪️ #THFC
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 11, 2023
Raya, open to Spurs move but club to club talks will be crucial. £40m fee asked by Brentford, considered too high. pic.twitter.com/IXqG5sdW68
Brentford asking price – £40 million
However, negotiations between the two clubs will be crucial as Brentford is demanding a fee of £40 million for their prized goalkeeper.
The Bees, though seemingly prepared for Raya’s departure, have already signed Mark Flekken from Freiburg as a potential replacement.
Brentford coach Thomas Frank has been open about the possibility of selling Raya, acknowledging that the club is open to player sales for the right price.
Thomas Frank, the Brentford manager, has been outspoken about selling Raya. “I believe we are just selling one player. David is the one who has received the most attention. I believe I mentioned he costs £40 million,” he said in May.
“I don’t think it’s a secret that we are a selling club. But if we want anyone to quit, the payouts must be absurdly huge for the players. Everyone here at Brentford, including myself, is undoubtedly content.
David Raya Eager for New Challenge
For Raya himself, the interest from top clubs like Tottenham is flattering, and he has expressed his desire to push himself to new heights, competing in elite competitions and aiming to win trophies.
Of course, it’s encouraging to learn that clubs are interested in you, curious about you, and on the lookout for you,” Raya is cited as saying by football.london.
Since these are the top clubs in the world, every player aspires to play for them. I still have a year left, and I have no idea what will occur this summer.
“I’ve previously stated that I’ve rejected down two contracts because they weren’t the offers I was searching for.
“I want to give it my all to win the Champions League and the Europa League,” the player said. In my football career, I’m at the point where I want to experience it.
