Arsenal move for Brentford ‘keeper still on, but depends on one departure

David Raya Brentford TEAMtalk

Arsenal could still move for Brentford goalkeeper David Raya despite signing Runar Alex Runarsson, but will wait to see if they can move Matt Macey on first.

The Gunners were linked with a number of ‘keepers after Emiliano Martinez made it clear he wanted to leave the Emirates. Martinez was keen to continue playing first team football after deputising for the injured Bernd Leno at the end of last season.

The Argentine joined Aston Villa in a £20million deal last week and saved a penalty on his debut as his new side beat Sheffield United 1-0.

On the same day, it was confirmed that Runarsson has come in to replace him at the Emirates. The 25-year-old makes the switch from Dijon and has signed a four-year deal with the North London club.

That seemed to rule out a move for another reported target in Raya, who is believed to be keen on joining Mikel Arteta’s side.

However, Football London (via the Daily Express) claim that piece of business could still be done this summer. They say Arsenal remain interested in the Spaniard, and could return with a second bid for him before the transfer window closes.

That will depend on reserve man Macey finding a new club though, with the 26-year-old actively looking for a new team.

With Martinez gone, Macey has been on the bench for both of Arsenal’s league games so far this term. Runarsson will is likely to take his place though, meaning his chances of first team football are extremely slim.

 

Macey is also eager to move on to pastures new, with the Bath-born glovesman “desperate” to play.  No offers have been received for him as of yet, but he will be allowed to leave should a bid come in.

Arsenal hopeful of negotiating swap deal with Atletico

In other news, Arsenal still hold hopes of sealing a swap deal that would see Thomas Partey move to the Emirates.

Partey has been heavily linked with a move to the Gunners over recent months, but his €50million release clause seems to be a problem.

However, Atletico are reportedly keen on signing midfielder Lucas Torreira, and that could help Arsenal finally land their man.

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