The transfer gossip keeps coming thick and fast, and Fabrizio Romano is back with the latest edition of his exclusive CaughtOffside column as he attempts to make sense of it all. Read on for the latest on a crazy saga involving Raphinha as Arsenal, Spurs and Chelsea hope to beat Barcelona to the Brazilian’s signature, plus updates on Ousmane Dembele, Youri Tielemans, and the issue of the Manchester United captaincy…
Mikel Arteta is in love with Raphinha, but it’s hard to predict this crazy transfer saga
The Raphinha situation is truly one of the craziest in recent years. Barcelona have had an agreement with the Brazilian on personal terms since late February, but the idea of offering €40m is far from the demands of Leeds who want at least £65m.
Arsenal have made a first offer turned down by Leeds, while Tottenham are preparing a proposal and Chelsea have explored the situation with a direct call from Todd Boehly.
Raphinha had given his ok to Barcelona as a priority for months, but is now really open to listening to English clubs. The decision will take a few days.
In my opinion, it would be nice to keep seeing him in the Premier League and there is a very good chance for that to happen: for example, I know that Arteta is really in love with Raphinha, but Tottenham and Chelsea are absolutely in the race.
Of all the clubs involved, I think Arsenal need him the most. I revealed in one of my earlier columns that Nicolas Pepe is available this summer, and Raphinha is the kind of talent the Gunners need to replace the disappointing Ivorian forward.
Ousmane Dembele situation remains up in the air
It could be interesting to see how the Raphinha saga affects what happens with Ousmane Dembele – both players have been linked with Chelsea, so here’s the latest information I have on the Frenchman as he approaches the end of his Barcelona contract.
As things stand, Barcelona have not yet received any official or final communication from Ousmane Dembele. The player has long ago let the club know that he would like to stay especially because of his relationship with Xavi, but he has not yet accepted Barca’s latest offer.
My understanding is that it’s not accurate to say he’s changed his mind and accepted the terms that have been on offer for some time. He would like an improved offer and the club is now busy with other deals, so it remains an open situation.
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