Brentford have signed Netherlands goalkeeper Mark Flekken from Freiburg with David Raya expected to leave in the coming months.
Flekken began his career in his native Netherlands at RKVV WDZ and Roda before moving to Germany, where he has played for Alemannia Aachen, Greuther Furth, Duisburg and Freiburg.
The 29-year-old made his Netherlands debut in March 2022 and kept 13 clean sheets in 34 Bundesliga matches – the highest tally in the division last season.
The four-year deal, which brings the four-times capped Flekken from Freiburg, is subject to international clearance and a work permit.
“We’re very happy to have signed Mark,” head coach Thomas Frank told the official Brentford website.
“He’s a player with a lot of quality who will strengthen our goalkeeper group.
“He has big experience and joins us after two great seasons with Freiburg, who have just had a top season in the Bundesliga, finishing fifth and qualifying for the Europa League.
“He was a big part of the team there and now he’s coming to us and will hopefully make the group better and the team better.
“He’s a very good shot-stopper and comfortable with the ball at his feet. His distribution is very impressive.”
The transfer is worth €13million (£11.2m), according to Fabrizio Romano.
Brentford boss Frank has said Raya could leave the club this summer after four successful seasons in West London.
Frank has, however, warned interested parties that it will cost them £40m to sign the 27-year-old Spaniard.
Chelsea, and Tottenham are all reportedly interested in signing Raya but are reluctant to meet the Bees’ asking price given the fact the goalkeeper is out of contract next summer.
Munell said: “If Brentford does not lower the price tag for David Raya this summer, we’ll be ready to leave as a free agent in one year.”
Premier League leaders Liverpool and third-placed Arsenal have three players each in the best XI of the season so far. Manchester City claim only one spot.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta admits he is ‘unsure’ whether David Raya, Jurrien Timber and Ben White will be fit to face Leicester City on Saturday.
According to reports, Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta has ‘turned to’ 16-year-old Jack Porter, who is ‘set to start’ in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday night.
Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has claimed that Arsenal are gaining an advantage over opponents through goalkeeper David Raya.
David Raya has been in fine form for Arsenal this season in important results, having made excellent saves in the 2-2 draw against Man City last weekend.
Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya has been hailed as the ‘best in the world’ after the Gunners drew 2-2 with Manchester City on Sunday.
© Planet Sport Limited 2024 • All Rights Reserved