Mikel Arteta blocks David Raya’s La Liga move for the next few years

David Raya’s permanent transfer to Arsenal was completed for £27 million after an initial loan from Brentford in August 2023, cementing the Spanish goalkeeper’s place at the club. The deal, confirmed by manager Mikel Arteta, secures a key figure who helped Arsenal win the Premier League and reach the Champions League final last season.

Why Arsenal invested £27 million

Arteta’s decision to sign Raya permanently reflected the goalkeeper’s impact during his loan spell. Raya kept clean sheets in key fixtures and was an integral part of Arsenal’s Premier League triumph and their run to the Champions League final, where they fell to Paris Saint‑Germain on penalties.

Raya, whose contract runs until 2028, told he would love to return to Spain and compete in La Liga before his career ends. Arteta replied that while the Spanish international may one day enjoy a summer on a beach in Spain, he must remain at Arsenal for the next few years.

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