Real Madrid are reportedly eyeing a surprise swoop for Arsenal shot-stopper David Raya as they begin planning for life after Thibaut Courtois.
Real Madrid plot shock move for Arsenal Goalkeeper David Raya
According to The Sun, the Spanish giants have placed Raya high on their shortlist of long-term successors for Courtois, who turns 33 this weekend.
The Belgian international, sidelined for much of this season due to a serious ACL injury, remains a key figure at the Bernabeu.
However, Real Madrid are taking proactive steps to secure a reliable backup—and potential heir—in goal.
Raya, currently on loan at Arsenal from Brentford but expected to complete a permanent move to the Emirates, has impressed Mikel Arteta and fans alike with his consistent performances.
The 29-year-old Spaniard has kept multiple clean sheets in the Premier League this season and played a key role in Arsenal’s title challenge.
But Real Madrid’s interest could complicate matters. Raya is under contract at Arsenal until June 2028, making any potential transfer a difficult—if not expensive—move for Los Blancos.
Arsenal are reportedly keen to retain him, but the allure of joining Europe’s most successful club could tempt the goalkeeper back to his home country.
Real are also said to be monitoring Brighton & Hove Albion’s Bart Verbruggen as another alternative.
Brighton, seemingly aware of growing interest in their No.1, have begun scouting replacements, including Burnley’s James Trafford and Liverpool’s CaoimhÃn Kelleher.
Should Madrid make a formal approach for Raya this summer, it would mark another high-profile twist in the goalkeeper market.
With Courtois nearing the twilight of his career, and with Real Madrid’s reputation for planning ahead, this move—while surprising—could be a smart long-term investment.
As things stand, no official bid has been made, but Raya’s future could become one of the standout storylines of the upcoming transfer window.
