Brentford have reportedly been dealt a blow in their efforts to retain the services of goalkeeper David Raya.
The Bees are currently enjoying one of their best seasons on record courtesy of occupying eighth place in the Premier League standings.
Thomas Frank's side, who are in just their second campaign since promotion, have lost just four of their 20 fixtures in the top flight during 2022-23.
However, their constant progress is naturally leading to interest in a wide array of their players, including their first-choice goalkeeper.
Raya has established himself as a key man at the West Londoners, making 143 appearances since departing Blackburn Rovers in 2019.
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During that period, the 27-year-old has also earned two caps for Spain, and it perhaps comes as no surprise that a number of bigger clubs are beginning to circle for his signature.
While Brentford are naturally keen to extend Raya's contract past 2024, the current transfer talk appears to be ensuring that is an unlikely development over the coming months.
According to journalist Alvaro de Grado, Raya has opted against accepting Brentford's latest contract offer.
De Grado adds that the most likely resolution will be a sale during the summer with Brentford expected to have little interest in risking losing one of their most prized assets on a free transfer in 18 months time.
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Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea all require goalkeeping solutions over the coming months and have been credited with an interest in Raya.
United's David de Gea, who is behind Raya in the Spain pecking order, is a mainstay between the sticks at Old Trafford, but his deal is due to expire at the end of the season.
Although Tottenham Hotspur have a long-term number one in Hugo Lloris, the Frenchman is now 36 years of age and a number of notable errors have put his place in the team in jeopardy.
While Chelsea currently have Kepa Arrizabalaga and Edouard Mendy at their disposal, it has been claimed that neither player is viewed as a long-term option at a time when the incomings and outcomings at Stamford Bridge are likely to continue into the summer.
Darren Plant
