Raphinha transfer news: Arsenal consider rivalling Barcelona for Leeds star
Cameron Smith
- Updated: 10 Jun 2022 17:00 BST
- 3 min read
Arsenal are considering making a move for Leeds United winger Raphinha and rival Barcelona for his signature.
The Brazil international enjoyed a stellar 2021/22 season, scoring 11 Premier League goals, including one on the final day of the season to secure Leeds' survival in the division.
However, that may have been his last involvement as a Leeds player. Barcelona have expressed an interest in the player for some time now, but a deal is yet to be agreed.
Related articles
The Catalan giants are experiencing well-known financial problems, and vice president Eduard Romeu has even admitted the club need to raise €500 million imminently or the future of the club could be at risk. They are also currently in €1.3 billion worth of debt.
Franck Kessie and Andreas Christensen are expected to arrive through the door on free transfers, but neither have been confirmed due to the club's monetary issues, while Robert Lewandowski has been strongly linked with a move from Bayern Munich.
Arsenal to rival Barcelona for Raphinha
Barcelona's pursuit of Raphinha has been made slightly tricky by their off-the-field troubles, and the Telegraph have now reported that Arsenal are considering the idea of making a bid for the Leeds player.
FootballTransfers revealed back in February that Raphinha has a €75m release clause in his contract at Elland Road, which would've been reduced to just €25m had Leeds been relegated. However, it does remain to be seen if Arsenal's consideration would be to activate his release clause or simply offer Leeds a deal they deem worthy of a sale.
Raphinha has two years left on his contract at the Yorkshire club, and this summer is therefore deemed the ideal time to sell as his value will never be higher. A move is expected, but the destination remains unclear.
However, if Arsenal decide to pursue their considered move for the player, Barcelona may not be able to reply given their financial issues. But, it will raise the question as to whether the Gunners are preparing for a Bukayo Saka exit.
Raphinha plays in the same position as Saka, and the Englishman has recently been linked with a move to both Manchester City and Liverpool. However, Manchester Evening News has reported that Pep Guardiola's side aren't interested in signing the 20-year-old.
