Arsenal have ‘joined the race for Leeds’ Brazil star Raphinha’ who has been heavily linked with a move away from Elland Road… but Barcelona still considered strong suitors for his signature
- Arsenal have reportedly joined the race to sign Leeds’ Brazil winger Raphinha
- Raphinha has been heavily linked with a move away from Elland Road in summer
- The Brazilian has been strongly linked with a switch to Catalan giants Barcelona
- But their ongoing financial difficulties could make it hard to finance the deal
- Premier League sides West Ham and Liverpool are also reportedly interested
Arsenal have reportedly joined the race to sign highly coveted winger Raphinha, 25, from Premier League rivals Leeds United.
The Brazilian attacker has become one of the most exciting attacking players in the league of late, and his performances have drawn interest from a number of Europe’s elite.
And according to The Telegraph, the Gunners have thrown their name into contention, with Barcelona‘s financial difficulties potentially opening the door for Mikel Arteta’s side.
Raphinha has 17 goals and 12 assists for Leeds since joining from Rennes for £16.74million
The Brazilian winger, who can play on either flank with devastating impact, had been poised to move to Barca this summer.
But Leeds Boss Jesse Marsch said last month that the Brazilian remains committed to the club and said his crucial performances throughout the season were emblematic of that.
He said: ‘He is 100 per cent invested. His emotion, which has been talked about, can be interpreted as lack of discipline.
‘I see it as total investment. That part has been no thought for me.’
Raphinha’s 11 goals in 35 games this season were crucial to Leeds’ Premier League survival
Following Leeds’ dramatic survival from Premier League relegation, it is believed that the west Yorkshire side’s valuation of the player is believed to have increased from around £21million to £55m.
And with Mikel Arteta guiding his side back to the Europa League for the first time since 2019/20, the Gunners will want to improve their squad depth to counter the increased fixture schedule.
Raphinha could add to a growing Brazilian contingent at the Emirates, joining the likes of Gabriel Magalhaes and…