Brentford will reportedly ‘not allow David Raya to leave this summer if they do not receive an acceptable offer’ and are ‘prepared to let him walk away for free in 2024’.
The Bees are currently in ninth, just three points behind sixth-placed Newcastle United. They have shown that they’re capable of contending with the league’s big hitters.
However, they do not have a squad filled with major quality players – most are good players who gel well with their teammates.
There are a couple of names that stand out as stars. Striker Ivan Toney is one that could be placed into that category, as is goalkeeper Raya.
His eight Premier League clean sheets this term are bettered by only five men: Ederson, Aaron Ramsdale, David de Gea, Alisson and Nick Pope. Clearly, Raya is establishing himself as one of the best goalkeepers in the league.
Because of that, he’s a man in high demand. Chelsea, Tottenham and Manchester United are a few of the clubs that have been credited with interest in him.
That his contract is running down would seemingly suggest if Brentford can’t convince him to sign a new one soon, they’d have to sell him. Indeed, his deal is up at the end of next season, and the club would surely like to recoup a fee if he does leave.
However, they seem adamant they won’t sell id the price is not right. Indeed, 90min reports the Bees will not allow Raya to leave this summer ‘unless they receive an acceptable offer’.
The report also suggests they would be ‘prepared to let him walk away for free in 2024’ if a suitable offer does not come in.
It seems somewhat crazy for the club to be so adamant about the fee that they’d let their star walk away for free if it’s not met.
Either they are very confident somebody will pay the big bucks, or they really want to keep hold of him for another season no matter the situation.
There still seems a slim chance that they can keep hold of Raya. The goalkeeper admitted recently he has goals to “play in Europe” and “win a title”.
Brentford could offer him a chance at the first of those goals soon. It’s not beyond the realms of possibility that they’ll end up with European football this season.
Last season’s seventh-placed side West Ham United are playing in the Europa Conference League this season. As such, should Brentford finish there – they’re one point away currently – and other parameters be met, they’ll secure European football.
That could potentially be the catalyst for…
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