Arsenal ready move to sign Aston Villa goalkeeper as David Raya decision made
Aston Villa goalkeeper Oliwier Zych has emerged as a target as Arsenal look for long-term backup to David Raya, according to Mike McGrath.
The Telegraph journalist posted on X (22 October) to report that both Arsenal and Brighton are tracking Zych’s progress at Villa Park following some “eye-catching” displays for the club’s Under-21s side.
Zych, 20, is currently third-choice at Villa behind Emi Martinez and Joe Gauci, and has also entered the final 12 months of his current contract, alerting Arsenal and Brighton to his impending availability.
The Gunners in particular are keen to sign and promote Zych to be their second-choice stopper behind Raya, with the current number two, 35-year-old Norberto Neto, on a year-long loan from Bournemouth.
Oliwier Zych expected to seek transfer away from Aston Villa
At 20-years-old but yet to make a first-team appearance at Villa Park, Zych clearly still has time on his side, and seemingly a pick of clubs where he could move further up the goalkeeping pecking order.
Villa’s strength-in-depth between the sticks is arguably stronger than that of regular title-chasers Arsenal, potentially giving Zych hope of a first-team breakthrough should he move to the Emirates.
Having World Cup winner Martinez and a full Australian international in Gauci ahead of him at Bodymoor Heath doesn’t leave Zych with much hope of doing the same should he stay put beyond 2020.
Arsenal and Brighton would therefore represent attractive potential destinations for the Poland youth international, given the clearer paths to first-team football the two clubs could give him.
Before long, Zych will be out of contract at Villa Park, and with the youngster set to be in high demand, Villa could face competition from a number of interested parties if they do decide to try and retain him.
In other Aston Villa news, Unai Emery is expected to make two changes against Bologna, including one which will raise eyebrows.
For more Aston Villa news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.