Arsenal News Transfer: Barcelona target very close to signing for Gunners
Arsenal News Transfer: Mikel Arteta’s side and Xavi’s Catalans are tussling for Leeds winger Raphinha with the Gunners seem to be winning the tussle.
According to Goal.com the Brazilian is said to be very close to signing for the English side. The former Sporting winger joined Peacocks in 2020 for a fee of €20 million. Since then he has been very impressive and he has made 66 appearances for Leeds United.
Even last season despite the poor show by the Peacocks, the Brazilian was a shining star. It is no wonder that he is now being linked to top clubs across Europe. However, as things stand Arsenal are leading the race for his signature.
Arsenal News Transfer: Why Mikel Arteta wants Raphinha?
This season the Gunners are back in action with European football. However, it is only the Europa league but they would have preferred Champions League football. But regardless of the competition, they will now need a larger squad.
The likes of Bakayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Emile Smith Rowe and Martin Odegaard are already at the club. However, the arrival of Brazilians will give Arteta more options for his frontline. This could mean the departure of Nicolas Pepe who is still the club’s record signing.
Not only this with European football in the midweek there will be more games and Arteta will have to rotate his squad to keep players for and firing as well. The arrival of players like Raphinha will also keep other players on their toes as Arteta looks to win some silverware and qualify for the Champions League next season.
The Gunners have been active in the transfer window and they have already secured the signing of Matt Turner and Marquinhos. While they are said to be close to signing Fabio Vieira.
Barcelona News: Catalans to miss out on Raphinha
The report from Goal states that Brazilian cannot wait for Barca to sort out their finances. It is very well documented how the Spanish giants have recently struggled with finances. It looks unlikely that they will be able to sort out their finances anytime soon.
On top of it, the Brazilian’s price increased by €30m. If Leeds had been relegated from the Premier League a €25m release clause in his contract would have been activated. However, the Peacocks survived the relegation battle.
Thus it is very hard for Barca to make a bid in excess of €50m. That’s why Arsenal have been able to move closer to bringing Raphinha to the Emirates.
