Arsenal ‘ready’ to meet £25m forward’s asking price amid double raid

Benrahma-Brentford-TEAMtalk

Arsenal are prepared to launch a double raid on Brentford, with the star attraction that of exciting Algerian forward Said Benrahma, according to a report.

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta has already made strides towards overhauling his squad in his image.

Defenders Pablo Mari and Cedric Soares both arrived on permanent deals. While much-publicised free agent pick-up Willian also signed on the dotted line.

Lille centre-half Gabriel Magahaes is strongly expected to shore up their back-line in the coming days, and one Arsenal legend expressed why his impending acquisition will be “huge” for the club.

Now, according to online publication 90min, Arteta could be set to flex his muscles in a tasty double raid.

Brentford duo Said Benrahma and David Raya are the two names speculated, with the report stating Arsenal are preparing to raid the Championship play-off runners-up.

The Bees suffered heartbreak when losing out to Fulham in extra-time. As such, they face an uphill battle to retain the services of their star names.

Benrahma shone last season, notching 27 combined goals and assists as Brentford topped the league’s scorers charts.

A figure of £25m is touted as required to seal his exit. But Arsenal will face competition from fellow Premier League sides, West Ham, Aston Villa, Chelsea, Leeds Utd and Crystal Palace.

Benrahma Brentford TEAMtalk

 

Brentford’s no.1 part two?

Raya, meanwhile, cemented himself as Brentford’s undisputed number one between the sticks.

The 24-year-old is reportedly seen as an ideal replacement for the potentially outgoing Emiliano Martinez.

Martinez has impressed when afforded opportunities, and was given the nod once again in the Community Shield clash versus Liverpool.

Martinez Arsenal TEAMtalk

The rumour mill has been swirling regarding his departure as he seeks guaranteed first-team football, however, with Leeds and Aston Villa registering their interest.

Arsenal and Brentford have recent history regarding exchange of talent. The Bees’ head of set pieces and individual development Andreas Georgson, and goalkeeping coach Inaki Cana have both already moved to Arsenal during Arteta’s managerial tenure.

Meanwhile, three sources have confirmed serious Leeds interest in a €35m Argentina winger who was previously a target for Arsenal.