Bayern Munich have started talks over the possible signing of Brentford goalkeeper David Raya, Fabrizio Romano has revealed.
The Spaniard looks set to depart the club, with just one year left on his deal and no desire to sign on, and the Bees have already recruited Mark Flekken from Freiburg in anticipation of Raya’s exit.
Raya had previously agreed personal terms with Tottenham Hotspur, but they abandoned the deal after refusing to pay Brentford’s £40m asking price, and the Bees will stick to this valuation as they deal with Bayern.
Romano has claimed that Bayern are set to commence talks over Raya to solve their own goalkeeper situation, but a deal will not be easy as Brentford continue to stand firm over their number one.
Brentford’s transfer strategy gives indication over Raya outcome
Brentford have not stood in the way of their star players leaving in recent years, as part of their strategy to sign lesser known players, turn a profit and upgrade their team at the same time.
The likes of Neal Maupay, Ollie Watkins, Said Benrahma were all bought for low fees and sold high, and Raya will likely continue this trend.
Raya joined for around £3m in 2019 from Blackburn, and if he is sold for £40m, this will see the club make a £37m profit, whilst replacing the Spain international with Flekken, who cost just £11m.
Flekken also appears to be a good fit to replace Raya, ranking as the most similar keeper in Europe in terms of strengths and weaknesses, and was impressive for Freiburg last season.
Raya has been a terrific goalkeeper for Brentford, recovering from his mistake in the 2020 Playoff Final to establish himself as one of the best in the Premier League, and was described as “important” by teammate Ben Mee, who has directly benefitted from his presence between the posts.
It remains to be seen whether Bayern follow up their interest with a bid which matches Brentford’s valuation, but the calibre of club interested in him highlights how Raya’s qualities are being admired across Europe.