Former English footballer Lee Dixon is hugely surprised that Arsenal are close to signing Brentford Goalkeeper David Raya this summer.
Dixon backs Aaron Ramsdale, as the 25-year-old shot stopper has been brilliant for Mikel Arteta’s side last term. His development at the English top-flight over previous few campaigns has been huge.
However, as per recent reports, Arsenal are on the verge of signing Raya as he is currently undergoing a medical for the London neighbours. Brentford initially rejected one offer from the Gunners as it didn’t match their asking price.
Lee Dixon now claims that he was astonished to hear that Arsenal are on verge of signing David Raya. The Arsenal legend is huge fan of current Gunners No 1 Aaron Ramsdale.
While speaking on the Sky Bet Fan Hope Survey, Dixon said :-
“Arsenal being linked with David Raya was a bit of a surprising one. It caught everybody by surprise because obviously [Aaron] Ramsdale had a brilliant season last year and he’s a great goalkeeper.
“I tend to listen to David Seaman’s opinion on goalkeepers over everyone else’s and he’s a big fan of Ramsdale and his development over the past few years, so it’s definitely caught me by surprise. Having said that, looking at [Mikel] Arteta’s point of view, he may have seen something in training where he thinks Ramsdale needs to be tested a little bit more for his place.”
Dixon is also a fan of Raya after watching his perform for the past two seasons in the Premier League.
Dixon claims Arsenal wants to make a “revelation” this campaign.
With all their transfer business this summer, Arsenal are currently making a huge statement after last season’s title-slip. Dixon further stated :-
“It’s maybe a bit of a statement from Arteta to say to the rest of the league that they’ve been on this journey of trying to build a squad that’s capable of challenging Manchester City. We know City’s squad has been the best for a few years now and he’s trying to build a squad where – If somebody comes in in any position, it won’t feel like the replacement is downscaling.
“Raya is a brilliant goalkeeper, he’s excellent with his feet, he ticks all the boxes. The interesting thing from his point of view is what Arteta has said to him.
“If he does end up signing, what has Arteta said and how has he pitched the club to Raya? Has he said if you go in and play well you are my number one?
“It’s an intriguing one, but it’s a statement from the club and the manager that he’s decided they need another goalkeeper. It took a few by surprise, I’m not totally surprised, but it did raise one of my eyebrows.”
All eyes will be on Arsenal, as manager Mikel Arteta have tested blood last season. The Spaniard and his squad will be charged for their opening day clash against Nottingham Forest on Saturday.
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