Real Madrid eye summer move for Premier League duo

Real Madrid have reportedly targeted Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya and Brighton’s Bart Verbruggen, ahead of a summer move, with speculations surrounding Andriy Lunin’s future at the Bernabeu.

The Spanish giants are looking to raid the Premier League once more as they shortlist Brighton and Arsenal shot-stoppers ahead of the summer window, as Trent Alexander-Arnold prepares to make a switch to Spain.

Real Madrid are reportedly intensifying moves for the summer transfer window, with a focus on strengthening their goalkeeping department for the long term, according to The Sun.

The 15-time Champions League winners are looking to secure the signing of an able deputy for Thibaut Courtois, who remains the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper at the Bernabeu.

As potential changes loom at the Spanish Capital, Madrid are preparing to try their luck with a serious interest in Raya and Verbruggen. It comes after Trent Alexander-Arnold gears up to join Madrid as a free agent in the summer.

David Raya has been sensational for Arsenal since moving from Brentford in 2023(Image Credit: Getty Images)

However, looking at the circumstances surrounding the two goalkeepers at their various clubs, 22-year-old Bart Verbruggen is believed to be the more plausible option.

The Dutch international has risen through the ranks to become Brighton’s first-choice and has shown consistent performances in the Premier League.

The initial plan would be to sign Verbruggen in as Courtois’ understudy, with a long-term vision of him stepping into the starting role in the future.

However, how Madrid will be able to convince the young Dutchman to swap his starting position at Brighton for a place on the bench in Spain could prove to be the turning point in the negotiations.

Bart Verbruggen has risen through the ranks to become Brighton’s first-choice goalkeeper (Image credit: Getty Images)

Another factor influencing Madrid’s interest in a new goalkeeping prospect is the situation surrounding Andriy Lunin.

The 26-year-old has been a loyal servant for the club as Courtois’ backup since arriving at the club, but with limited game time and desire for growth, he is likely to seek a fresh challenge elsewhere. Madrid are reportedly open to parting ways with the Ukrainian this summer, provided they receive a good offer.

If that happens, the club would be under increased pressure to secure a goalkeeper who can offer both immediate cover and future promise — a role that may fit Verbruggen perfectly. While Verbruggen remains a priority, Real Madrid are also keen on Arsenal’s Raya.

The 29-year-old Spaniard has cemented his place as the Gunners’ first-choice keeper under Mikel Arteta, following his move from Brentford.

Despite that, any attempt to prise Raya away from North London is expected to be difficult to execute. With Arsenal likely to reject advances for their established first-choice goalkeeper, a role Raya seems to be enjoying at the club.