Arsenal have joined Barcelona in the race for Leeds United midfielder Raphinha this summer, according to reports.
The Brazilian winger is ‘expected to leave Elland Road in the coming weeks’, and has a price on his head of around 55m euros, amid strong interest from Barcelona.
However, the strong interest is seemingly unable to be paired with the financial means to bring Raphinha to the Camp Nou, perhaps allowing other clubs to swoop in.
And, one of those could be Arsenal, according to the Telegraph, who claim that the Gunners are ‘considering’ a move for the Elland Road man.
Arsenal considering move for Leeds United winger Raphinha | @SamJDean and @mcgrathmike #afc https://t.co/XzlHNMt83Y
— Telegraph Football (@TeleFootball) June 10, 2022
They are not alone, however, with Mikel Arteta’s side ‘likely to face competition from clubs across Europe’, and Liverpool having previously been interested in the Leeds man.
With record-signing Nicolas Pepe almost certain to leave this summer, the Gunners will need reinforcements in wide areas, with Bukayo Saka featuring in all 38 Premier games this season and unlikely to be able to manage such a feat again next campaign.
In that sense, Raphinha, who racked up 11 goals and 3 assists in Yorkshire last season, would make sense. However, whether he would be happy to not be automatic first choice upon arrival is another matter.
Arsenal losing ground on Jesus?
Meanwhile, the Gunners could be losing ground in the race for Gabriel Jesus as Chelsea have reportedly entered the race for the Brazilian after being offered to the west London club.
As per the Athletic, ‘if a serious competitor were to emerge within the next fortnight, Arsenal would have a fight on their hands.If a serious competitor were to emerge within the next fortnight, Arsenal would have a fight on their hands’.
💥 The transfer window is officially open.
🔺Why Scamacca is prepared to leave Italy
🔺Why Arsenal optimistic on Tielemans
🔺Emerging competition from #CFC on Jesus
🔺#AFC feel Marquinhos dispute will be settled
🔺Why Gnabry is unlikely@TheAthleticUKhttps://t.co/gg0Lf5fajA— gunnerblog (@gunnerblog) June 10, 2022
With Chelsea now in the race, they could well have to fight it out for their man.
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