Arsenal are reportedly set to rival Barcelona for Leeds United winger Raphinha. Raphinha’s contract runs until 2024. The Brazilian, although has been the center of transfer speculation ahead of a potential summer departure from Elland Road.
That is why their sporting director Mateu Alemany went to England to hold talks with the Yorkshire club. However, the transfer fee is a big barrier to sign Raphinha. Leeds are demanding a fee in the region of £55m for the Brazilian international. At the moment, Barcelona are having ongoing financial issues. There is also soon going to be another problem for Catalan giants.
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Another problem for Barca is Arsenal. According to Telegraph, Arsenal are considering a move for Raphinha. Arsenal are looking at Brazilian winger to bolster their attacking options ahead of the 2022-23 season. Nicolas Pepe is expected to leave this summer.
The Gunners are looking at the £55m winger as a replacement. Barcelona’s ongoing financial issues will require Barcelona to sell a few players before they sign someone. Arsenal’s technical director Edu is very keen on the deal, as he has a strong network in the Brazilian market. Since arriving in 2020, Raphinha has scored 17 goals in his 67 appearances for Leeds.
Arsenal owners are looking to bolster Mikel Arteta’s squad to finally finish in the Uefa Champions League position next season. Leeds United manager Jesse Marsch is also keen to keep retain Raphinha for at least one season.
But, at the moment, this is looking very unlikely as Raphinha might think he is too good for Leeds. If he rejects a new contract at Leeds to stay, the owners will have no choice but to sell him this season at the top price.
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