According to a report from Football.London, Chelsea are poised to potentially outmanoeuvre Tottenham in the pursuit of David Raya as both clubs aim to strengthen their goalkeeping options. The 27-year-old shot-stopper has been strongly linked with a summer move away from Brentford, and the club’s technical director has approved his potential departure. However, securing his signature for the Blues could come at a price tag of at least £40 million.
Raya’s Impressive Season In English Football
Raya had a commendable season with Brentford, delivering a series of standout performances in goal for the team in the Premier League. The Spanish goalkeeper kept an impressive tally of 12 clean sheets and conceded 47 goals in 39 appearances across all competitions this season.
At 27 years old, Raya showcased his abilities with an average of 0.5 clearances and 10.8 long balls per 90 minutes in the Premier League. However, he should improve his ball distribution from the back, as his pass completion rate stood at 60.7% in league matches (stats via Whoscored).
With his current contract at the Gtech Community Arena set to expire in the summer of 2024, there is a possibility that Chelsea could secure his services at a reasonable price during this transfer window.
Should Pochettino Bring Him To Chelsea?
Raya has demonstrated that he can be a dependable presence between the goalposts when he exudes confidence on the pitch. He possesses the necessary skills to effectively clear any danger that arises and is a capable handler of the ball.
One of his standout qualities is his impressive reflexes, which enable him to make crucial saves for his team. However, to thrive at a top-tier club like Mauricio Pochettino‘s Chelsea, Raya must improve his passing accuracy.
At 27 years old, Raya is on the cusp of entering his prime and possesses the qualities to make an immediate impact at the West London club in the upcoming season. His arrival would intensify the competition among goalkeepers, providing a challenge to Kepa Arrizabalaga and potentially even serving as a replacement for Edouard Mendy at Stamford Bridge.
