David Raya explains transfer ambitions amid Spurs and Man United interest

Brentford goalkeeper David Raya has explained his ambitions to “win titles” amid interest from both Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United.

The Spanish goalkeeper has emerged as one of the most sought after shot-stoppers in the Premier League since he was promoted with The Bees two years ago.

The 27-year-old offers a well-rounded skillset in between the sticks and has a year left on his contract at the Gtech Community Stadium.

United are looking for a starting goalkeeper in the case that David de Gea’s contract is not extended at the end of June, and Raya is on their list.

Whilst Spurs look to be in the driving seat, having agreed personal terms with the Brentford no.1, there is still a chance for Erik ten Hag’s men to pounce on a potential deal.

Reports from Sam Dean of the Telegraph state that Ange Postecoglou’s new side are reluctant to pay the £40 million fee that has been publicly demanded for Raya and that there is no expectation that a deal will be agreed imminently.

It was added that any hesitation from Spurs could open the door for United to make their move for the goalkeeper later in the transfer window – likely after De Gea’s future has been decided.

Speaking on the upcoming summer, Raya acknowledged the difficulties his current club are placing on a move with their asking price and also explained his ambitions to reach the next level in his career.

“I know there are rumours about me leaving,” Raya said in an interview with The Times. “There are some options for me to go but obviously Brentford are asking for a lot of money.

“That could make clubs not want to buy me, it could make them look somewhere else. But if that’s the value they give me then it’s up to them. I have a year left on my contract and until then I’m a Brentford player, there’s nothing I can do.

“I have ambitions to make the next step in my career. I want to try to win titles and to compete in Europe in the next couple of years. I’m 27 now and I feel like I’m at the point in my career when I want to make that step up. There are options out there but it’s not just my ambitions, the club also needs to let me go.”

However, the former Blackburn player suggested that he will not force a move away from West London and that he will strive to improve under Thomas Frank if a move does not materialise.

“I’m a professional,” he added. “If I end up staying at Brentford I will always give my all, that’s my job. If I have to stay, I’ll try to have an even better season than last season.”