Manchester United transfer news: David Raya on Red Devils shortlist

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Manchester United are in the mix to sign Brentford goalkeeper David Raya this summer, report The Telegraph.

Raya has been carving out a reputation as one of the Premier League’s best goalkeepers, and was preferred at international level to David de Gea, by former Spain boss Luis Enrique.

The goalkeeper’s contract at Brentford expires in June 2024, which could prompt the Bees to attempt to cash in this coming summer.

The Telegraph report Raya could be available for between £15-20 million, a figure which would still allow Brentford to make a profit on the £3 million they paid to sign him in 2019.

READ: Confirmed Manchester United transfers in, out, loan deals for January 2023

David Raya on Red Devils shortlist

Raya, 27, has made 142 appearances for Brentford, keeping 48 clean sheets, including one against Manchester United this season.

All options at goalkeeper are open for Manchester United this summer, with uncertainty over David de Gea’s future.

De Gea wants to stay, The Mail report, with negotiations ongoing over a contract with a reduced salary. However, this has not yet been agreed, and he is free to negotiate a pre-agreement with foreign clubs.

Dean Henderson is out on loan until the rest of the season, but is only likely to want to stay if he is number one.

Another possible option is Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa, with The Athletic reporting last year he has been scouted by Manchester United.

He would be very expensive, with David Raya a much cheaper alternative who is already used to playing in the Premier League.

Raya’s ability to pass the ball has caught the eye, with Luis Enrique explaining via ESPN: “He has the profile a goalkeeper needs in the selección both for his ability in the goal and his ability to play with his feet.”

Jurgen Klopp even was quoted by The Telegraph: “He should have a No 10 on his back, with the balls he played,” in reference to Raya’s passing ability.

United reportedly face competition for Raya from Tottenham and Chelsea, so if Erik ten Hag does decide to pursue him and replace De Gea, he can’t afford to spend too long agonising over it.