By Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

1st Aug, 2023 | 7:00pm

Sources: Arsenal close to surprise double deal

Arsenal are in talks to sign Brentford goalkeeper David Raya and sell backup shot-stopper Matt Turner to Nottingham Forest, sources have told Football Insider.

It is believed the framework of each deal is close to being agreed.

Turner has emerged as an alternative to top target Dean Henderson at Nottingham Forest – with Steve Cooper’s side now doing due diligence in the market with less than two weeks until the new season begins.

Football Insider revealed on Tuesday (1 August) that Henderson’s Forest move is still in jeopardy with his injury the latest reason for the hold-up.

Cooper’s side had intended to re-sign the England international after his successful loan last season but are now exploring alternatives in case a deal can’t be struck.

Turner is the United States’ number one goalkeeper and has made 32 appearances for his country, including at last year’s World Cup.

However, at club level, he has exclusively been a backup for Aaron Ramsdale since joining Arsenal from the New England Revolution in 2022.

The 29-year-old made seven starts in cup competitions last season, conceding four goals and keeping four clean sheets.

Meanwhile, Raya is expected to depart Brentford this summer after the Bees moved to sign Freiburg star Mark Flekken as their new first-choice goalkeeper earlier this summer.

However, there has been a lack of interest in a player the London club value at around £40million with one year remaining on his contract.

Raya made 39 appearances across all competitions in the 2022-23 campaign – conceding 47 goals and keeping 12 clean sheets.

In other news, three clubs race to sign Arsenal striker.