Tottenham are “on the verge” of agreeing personal terms with Manchester United transfer target David Raya, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

The Brentford goalkeeper is known to be a target for the Red Devils, along with Chelsea, but Romano claims Spurs have made the most progress in negotiations:

EXCL: Tottenham are now on the verge of reaching an agreement with David Raya on personal terms. Long term contract, almost agreed after positive talks. 🚨⚪️ #THFC

Raya, open to Spurs move but club to club talks will be crucial. £40m fee asked by Brentford, considered too high. pic.twitter.com/IXqG5sdW68

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 11, 2023

As Romano mentions, though, Raya’s £40m asking price will present a problem for Tottenham or any other team that wants to secure the Spaniard’s signature this summer.

The shot-stopper’s contract expires at the end of next season and his agent has already spoken out to criticise his club for setting his valuation too high.

Why are United not pursuing Raya?

While manager Erik ten Hag is believed to be keen to offer David De Gea some competition if the 32-year-old does sign a new contract and remains at Old Trafford, it isn’t a top priority.

With the Manchester club reportedly having a transfer budget between £100m and £150m, most of the funds will be devoted to signing a striker, a midfielder and potentially a centre-back.

Splashing out £40m on Raya, who would not be guaranteed a starting place, does not make a lot of sense unless De Gea doesn’t put pen to paper on a contract extension.

Are United considering cheaper alternatives?

Anderlecht keeper Bart Verbruggen has been linked with United and he would be someone who could come in and compete with De Gea for minutes.

However, it looks as though the young Dutchman will be heading elsewhere, with Brighton and Burnley competing for his signature.

In terms of other options, Dinamo Zagreb’s Dominik Livakovic may also come back onto the radar, having been mentioned as a prospective target back in April.