Arsenal are considering Barcelona’s Rafinha to fill the hole left by the potential departures of Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Özil, according to reports.
After another loss in a big game where Alexis and Özil were seen leaving the pitch as quickly as possible, it seems more likely than ever that the pair will reject any new contract offers, so the Gunners need to start looking elsewhere.
The Sun claim that Arsenal will turn to Rafinha, as the Brazilian has experience in a number of positions. For example, last season he played in central midfield, right midfield, right wing and left wing at various stages, despite only making 18 league appearances thanks to injuries.
Scoring six goals and adding two assists in those league games, the 24-year-old made a useful addition when he was available.
However, Rafinha missed so many games through injury last campaign, it would be a risk to take a chance on him. According to reports, he had achilles tendon problems, a nasal fracture, thigh problems and a meniscus injury, all in the space of a few months.
The meniscus injury is still affecting the Brazil international today, and as such he hasn’t played a single game this season. If I were in charge of transfers at Arsenal, I’d be looking for someone a little more proven over an extended period of time to replace my star men.