Arsenal goalkeeper target signs new contract to commit future to Brentford

David Raya has extended his contract by a year to commit his future to Brentford until 2024, ending talk of a move to Arsenal.

The 25-year-old Spaniard joined the Bees from Blackburn last summer and his impressive debut season, which saw him keep 16 clean sheets, has attracted interest from Arsenal.

However, the Gunners have signed Runar Alex Runarsson to be their backup goalkeeper instead.

Runarsson is yet to make his debut, with Bernd Leno keeping a firm grip on the number one spot.

There had been speculation that Arsenal could try to sign both Raya and Runarsson – but they would have had to sell Matt Macey first.

The third-choice goalkeeper is ready to leave the club, but there have been a lack of offers so far.

Therefore, any chance of Arsenal going back in for Raya have taken a massive hit.

Frank calls Raya one of best in Championship

Injury delayed Raya’s start to this campaign, but two winning appearances in the Carabao Cup – over Premier League pair West Brom and Fulham – have helped Brentford reach the last eight of that competition for the first time in their history.

Bees head coach Thomas Frank told the club’s official website: “We are very pleased that David has signed a new contract.

“He showed last year that he was a very important player for us and, for me, he is one of the best keepers in the league.

“He made some big contributions in key moments last year and that’s something I want to see even more of going forward.”