Man Utd, Tottenham, Chelsea transfer battle heats up as Brentford sign replacement for stat-leading star
Brentford are reportedly set to sign Freiburg goalkeeper Mark Flekken, as they prepare the departure of David Raya at the end of the season.
Manchester United, Tottenham and Chelsea have all registered an interest in the Bees’ shot-stopper. So, it is looking increasingly likely he will be sold.
Raya won’t come cheap, though, with Brentford boss Thomas Frank slapping a £40m price tag on his head.
This season, the Spaniard has made 35 Premier appearances, keeping 11 clean sheets in the process. In fact, Raya has made more saves than any other keeper in the division.
But, it seems Frank is resigned to losing the 27-year-old, after reportedly finalising a deal for Flekken.
This is according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, who confirmed Flekken’s impending arrival as Raya’s replacement.
On Twitter, he said: “Brentford are in advanced talks to sign Mark Flekken — deal progressing to the final stages, as reported by Bild.
“Brentford will activate €13m release clause once an agreement on personal terms is completed. He’ll replace David Raya, who is expected to leave this summer.”
PL clubs are circling for David Raya
As mentioned, Manchester United, Tottenham and Chelsea have all registered an interest in Raya. Indeed, all three of the Premier League giants are tipped to sign a new keeper this summer.
Erik ten Hag is currently considering his options, with David de Gea currently negotiating a new contract. The 32-year-old’s wages will be slashed, as Man Utd prepare to bring in a long term replacement in the summer.
A number of names are on Ten Hag’s shortlist. But, given Raya’s form this season, the Brentford man could be an ideal option.
Tottenham, on the other hand, look destined to part ways with club captain Hugo Lloris this summer. Despite his recent poor form, his absence will leave a void in the squad.
With that in mind, Spurs will definitely need to bring in a new keeper this summer. Southampton star Gavin Bazunu is the latest name to be linked with the club.
But, with Raya set to be sold, Tottenham could reignite their interest in him as an alternative.
Finally, Chelsea are expected to part ways with Edouard Mendy at the end of the season. This will leave the Blues in need of, at the very least, a new understudy to Kepa Arrizabalaga.
Incoming new manager Mauricio Pochettino will ultimately get the final say on whether Chelsea target a new number one or not. So, it will be interesting to see if they go in for Raya, as noted by various reports.
With that in mind, we could see a bidding war for Raya this summer. So, it seems likely someone will meet Brentford’s £40m price tag.
