According to the Mirror, Manchester United’s pursuit of goalkeeper David Raya has received a major boost as Brentford has made its first summer signing.
The Bees have acquired Mark Flekken from German club Freiburg for a fee of £11 million. This transfer suggests that Flekken is being brought in as a direct replacement for Raya, who is expected to leave Brentford this summer.
Raya has established himself as a talented Premier League goalkeeper and has attracted interest from several top clubs, including United. Manager Erik Ten Hag is eager to bring in a new goalkeeper to compete with or potentially replace David de Gea.
Brentford manager Thomas Frank has admitted that Raya is available for sale and the club is preparing for his exit. The signing of Flekken marks Brentford’s initial move in this direction.
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The shot-stopper’s impressive performance in the Bundesliga has caught the attention of several clubs.
He kept 13 clean sheets last season, the highest in the league and played a crucial role in Freiburg’s fifth-place finish. His outstanding form even earned him a call-up to the Netherlands national team.
Frank was impressed by Flekken’s abilities and the club has now secured his services, pending international clearance and a work permit. The Freiburg keeper has signed a four-year contract with the Premier League club, and Frank expressed his delight at the arrival of the keeper.
Following Brentford’s victory over Manchester City, Frank confirmed that Raya is likely to leave the club this summer.
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However, the Bees have set a high asking price of £40 million for his transfer. Ten Hag is in search of a new goalkeeper, especially with De Gea yet to sign a new contract.
The Spanish star had a mixed season, prompting Ten Hag to pursue other top-level options.
