Arsenal have expressed their interest in Barcelona talisman Raphinha and are ready to test the Spanish club’s stance on their star winger, as per TBR Football.
The 28-year-old has taken the world by storm this season with Ballon d’Or-level performances in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League.
He has scored 18 goals and provided eight assists in just 23 games across all competitions. With form comes demand, and it is normal to see such sensational talents being chased by elite clubs like Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester City.
ARSENAL CONTINUE TALKS FOR BARCELONA STAR RAPHINHA
The Gunners have informed Raphinha’s parent club regarding their interest in the past, and they have once again started contacting them through intermediaries.
They are willing to help Barcelona solve their squad issues and raise funds to register Dani Olmo. They need to get over this matter by the end of the year or risk losing the versatile attacker for free.
🚨 Arsenal remain in contact with intermediaries over a potential deal to sign Raphinha from Barcelona.
Liverpool and Man City also want the Brazilian.
(Source: @TBRFootball) pic.twitter.com/RVpD8xfuqy
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) December 16, 2024
The La Liga giants have faced issues registering Olmo since signing him in the summer. They either need to sell a player or gather financial aid through other means. Barcelona are close to completing a new deal with Nike by the end of this week, which would solve their issues.
They aren’t at a vulnerable stage, but Arsenal made them aware that they are standing right in front of them if they ever decide to cash in on Raphinha next year. The South American sensation is operating at a world-class level, and having him in the squad will genuinely make them serious title contenders.
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Mikel Arteta needs a strong backup to Bukayo Saka. He has been overly reliant on the English speedster, and using him far more often has made him prone to injuries. Similarly, Liverpool are looking for a Mohamed Salah successor since the Egyptian star’s contract expires next summer.
Raphinha is Premier League proven and was a star performer at Leeds United back then. Clubs across England admire his talent, and the player himself has stepped up since joining Camp Nou in 2022.
Raphinha in the current season:
• 27 matches
• 28 contributions
• 20 goals
• 8 assists pic.twitter.com/jpiUPfx9fz— 𝐂𝐑𝐈𝐒 (@CR_74_) December 12, 2024
He will be a marquee signing for the Gunners. But the question remains whether there is any realistic chance to get our hands on the £55m-rated star next year. Since Barca have found a solution to their squad issues, it is hard to see them sell the in-form winger.
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Arsenal should still be in contact with them and wait for a proper chance to strike. They have done a lot of groundwork, and they won’t be giving up that easily.
