Arsenal have reportedly renewed its interest in signing Brazilian winger Raphinha from FC Barcelona during the upcoming summer transfer window, according to a report.
Arsenal reportedly see Raphinha as an ideal candidate to strengthen their attacking options and provide competition for young star Bukayo Saka.
Raphinha’s Premier League experience
Raphinha, who previously impressed during his time at Leeds United, is well-acquainted with the demands of the Premier League.
His speed, dribbling skills, and ability to make a difference on the field make him an attractive prospect for Mikel Arteta’s side.
Despite experiencing a somewhat inconsistent spell at Barcelona, the Brazilian’s undeniable talent has kept him on Arsenal’s radar.
Barcelona’s financial situation
Arsenal eyeing a potential bargain
As FC Barcelona continues to grapple with financial challenges, Arsenal hope to capitalise on the situation by securing Raphinha’s services at a lower-than-expected price.
The Catalan club is looking to offload several players in order to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations and create room for new signings.
Raphinha is among the players who could be on their way out, making a move to Arsenal increasingly possible.
Previous Raphinha negotiations
Winter transfer window talks
During the winter transfer window, Barcelona set a €60 million price tag on Raphinha, a figure that Arsenal may now find more palatable as they seek to bolster their squad for next season’s Premier League and UEFA Champions League campaigns.
Raphinha’s Arsenal love
Raphinha recently admitted his fondness for Arsenal during an interview, revealing that the North London club is one of his favourites to watch outside of La Liga.
The 26-year-old Brazilian international joined Barcelona in the summer of 2022 amidst interest from Arsenal and Chelsea.
Raphinha mentioned that he loves watching Arsenal, as well as Paris Saint-Germain, where his friend Neymar plays.
Raphinha has scored nine goals and provided nine assists in 38 appearances.
Edu reveals truth behind Raphinha transfer saga last summer
Arsenal’s technical director, Edu Gaspar, explained that the transfer saga surrounding Raphinha was not as drawn-out as it seemed in the media.
Arsenal had approached Raphinha’s agent, Deco, early in the summer transfer window with hopes of signing the then 25-year-old Leeds United player.
However, Deco informed Edu that Raphinha’s dream was to join Barcelona.
Respecting the player’s wishes, Arsenal took a step back, and Raphinha eventually joined Barcelona for a €58m fixed fee with €9m in potential add-ons.