Raphinha is keen on returning to the Premier League, potentially allowing Arsenal to reignite their interest if Nico Williams joins Barcelona.
Arsenal’s preferred winger signing this summer is Athletic Club’s Nico Williams, but there are various complications to a potential deal.
Williams’ release clause isn’t particularly high at €58m (£48.8m), but that money would all have to be paid upfront, and the winger is then asking for such high wages that they convinced Chelsea to withdraw from the race.
Perhaps even more than that, Barcelona’s interest in Williams is a problem. The La Liga club have made no secret of their pursuit of the winger, and for a Spaniard, the chance to join Barcelona is likely very appealing.
Yet there could be one upside to Barcelona winning the race for Williams, with Graeme Bailey reporting for HITC that Raphinha is consequently keen to return to the Premier League.
With Lamine Yamal impressing and Williams possibly joining, Raphinha’s minutes will be limited, and Barcelona are keen on moving him on.
Arsenal are among the clubs to have been informed of Raphinha’s availability this summer.
Arsenal made enquiries for Raphinha’s signing in 2022, before he left Leeds United.
Edu Gaspar confirmed he held talks with Raphinha’s agent, but once it was clear the player wanted to go to Barcelona, things didn’t progress any further.
The winger is clearly fond of Arsenal, naming the Gunners earlier this year as a club he likes outside of Spain, and admitting “I love Arsenal” in an interview in 2023.
Still just 27 and with plenty of Premier League experience, Raphinha would make a strong signing for Arsenal if he’s not going to get minutes with Barcelona.
The winger scored 10 goals and assisted 13 in 37 games in 2023/24. He can play on both flanks, making him a useful potential addition to Mikel Arteta’s forward options.