Arsenal and Tottenham are interested in signing Leeds winger Raphinha this summer.
Both Arsenal Tottenham are interested in signing Leeds winger Raphinha this summer, amid concerns Barcelona will be unable to fund a deal for the forward, The Athletic understands.
Raphinha has performed superbly during his two seasons at Elland Road following a move from French side Rennes in 2020.
With two years left on his deal, It is understood that Leeds no longer anticipate him accepting a new contract — something that appeared to be on the cards midway through the season — and although Raphinha has not directly asked for a transfer, it is no secret that he sees himself playing in European competition and the club are opened to selling Raphinha providing their valuation of the player is met.
He has been repeatedly linked with a move to Barcelona, but there are growing concerns over whether or not the La Liga side can fund a deal.
Not less than €55m, no payments in many years/installments. Leeds have not changed their conditions for Raphinha’s transfer. ⚪️ #LUFC
Barcelona are in advanced talks with the player since February, but talks with Leeds are definitely not easy – as reported last Tuesday. ⤵️ https://t.co/loshElA8gR
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 4, 2022
The Spanish side have debts of more than £1 billion and strict controls on their recruitment and expenditure.
That has opened the door to the Premier League’s north London rivals — who both hold an interest in the Brazil international.
Arsenal and Tottenham are interested in signing Leeds winger Raphinha this summer.
After seemingly snatching Bissouma from Arsenal’s grasps, Tottenham have entered bidding war with their North London rivals Arsenal. However, it’s understood should Spurs swoop for Raphinha, it would end their pursuit of Everton forward Richarlison, with a move for both Brazilians unlikely.
Tottenham’s managing director of football Fabio Paratici is known to operate by lining up multiple targets to ensure that if one falls through, there is a back-up option.
Tottenham have already been very active in the summer transfer market. They have completed the signings of Fraser Forster and Ivan Perisic on free transfers, while The Athletic reported on Tuesday that they are also in talks to sign Djed Spence and have agreed a fee for Brighton midfielder Yves Bissouma.
Arsenal, meanwhile, have long-standing interest in Raphinha, and are interested in signing the Leeds winger Raphinha as Mikel Arteta looks to provide alternatives to Bukayo saka next season.
The winger has, however, played the most minutes of any outfield player for Arsenal this season in the Premier League and it has sparked fears he could suffer from burnout.
Arsenal have genuine interest in Raphinha since March, he’s always been appreciated – but there’s still no bid or negotiation with Leeds. Gabriel Jesus & Tielemans, priorities. ⚪️🔴 #AFC
Leeds won’t accept less than €55m for Raphinha, as of now – message sent to Barça days ago. https://t.co/i0Pnqd7Pty
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 10, 2022
Arsenal have added Marquinhos and goalkeeper Matt Turner to their squad ahead of the 2022-23 campaign and are still in talks over Gabriel Jesus and Youri Tielemans‘ deal.
Chelsea are also understood to hold an interest in the 25-year-old, although they are also working on a deal for Ousmane Dembele, who is poised to leave Barcelona on a free transfer.
Raphinha has enjoyed two fine seasons since moving to play for Leeds in the Premier League under Marcelo Bielsa, scoring 17 goals in 65 top-flight appearances.
