Arsenal move to lock up David Raya after his Spain wish

Arsenal need to secure David Raya to preserve the defensive foundation that has underpinned their recent dominance in the Premier League, especially after the goalkeeper openly expressed a wish to return to Spain.

Raya, 31, is widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers currently plying their trade in the Premier League. He has kept the most or joint‑most clean sheets in the EPL over the past three seasons, a record that often invites comparison with the now 34‑year‑old Alisson Becker.

Internationally, Raya is a regular in Spain’s squads but remains largely underused, with Unai Simon preferred in the starting line‑up.

In a recent interview with, Raya declared, “Yes, I would love to. I would love to try out LaLiga,” adding that he is “very happy here” but would “certainly like to experience the Spanish league.” He stressed that the competition is “very competitive” and that, as a Spaniard, he would love to play there.

Potential Spanish destinations

Given his calibre, Raya could slot into Barcelona, Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid if he returns home. Barcelona are locked in with Joan Garcia, Real’s current number one Thibaut Courtois is 34, and Atletico’s Jan Oblak is 33, making a move to Madrid the most plausible scenario.

Arsenal's contract strategy

Raya is contracted to Arsenal until 2028, with an option for an extra season, and he signed a new deal in 2025 that raised his salary without extending the term. According to a report from Football Insider, manager Mikel Arteta and the club now plan to open talks on another improved contract to keep Raya in north London for the rest of his prime years.

Reporter Pete O’Rourke insisted that Raya is “not set to leave the club anytime soon” and that Arsenal intend to retain him for “another two seasons at least”.