Arsenal lining up shock transfer for Emiliano Martinez as David Raya could move to Spain
Arsenal are considering a surprise return for Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez this summer, according to The Sun’s Alan Nixon.
The Gunners are expected to be active in the next transfer window. The focus could be on bolstering the attack with multiple acquisitions.
A new backup goalkeeper could be signed too. The Gunners have a long-term interest in recruiting Espanyol sensation Joan Garcia.
Amidst this, Nixon has surprisingly claimed that Mikel Arteta’s side could consider a shock reunion with Martinez, who is poised to leave Villa.
The journalist cites that Arsenal fear Raya could move to Spain this summer with transfer interest from Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid.
Madrid see him as a successor to Thibaut Courtois. Atletico could sign him to replace Jan Oblak, who could push for a move to Saudi Arabia.
Martinez to Arsenal speculation is pure clickbait
Raya has been an undisputed starter in goal for the Gunners since replacing Aaron Ramsdale last season.
The Spaniard has kept the most clean sheets in the Premier League during this time, and could win the Golden Glove award for the second season running.
Raya was circumspect with his distribution in his debut campaign, but he has been more precise and has also made several world-class saves for the Gunners.
In our view, there is no reason for Raya to pursue a new challenge this summer. Why would he want to leave the Gunners to play as a backup to Courtois?
There is no guarantee that Oblak will leave Atletico too. The Slovenian star has been with Diego Simeone’s side for 11 seasons. We won’t be surprised if he stays put.
Moreover, moving to Atletico from Arsenal would be a downgrade. Raya stands a better chance to win major silverware with the Gunners in years to come.
Unless Martinez is willing to play as Raya’s understudy next term, we don’t see the Gunners signing the World Cup winner during this summer’s transfer window.
Arsenal have already identified Garcia as the main target for the deputy role, though Villa could have a say. They have him on their radar to replace Martinez.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
