Arsenal making constant calls to Raphinha’s agent

Arsenal have been making constant calls to Raphinha’s representative through sporting director Edu Gaspar, according to Spanish publication Sport (Page 3).

The Gunners were keen on signing the Brazil international from Leeds United last summer but preferred to move to the Catalan giants.

Raphinha has been impressive in his debut campaign, netting ten goals and 11 assists, but he is considering his future heading into the summer.

Sport claim that the former Rennes man is worried over his national team spot. He is currently vying with Antony and Rodrygo for the right-wing role.

The attacker believes his position could be hampered if his playing time is reduced significantly at club level by the return of Lionel Messi next season.

It is reported that Ousmane Dembele, Robert Lewandowski and Messi could be Xavi’s preferred attacking trio heading into the 2023/24 campaign.

Sport also revealed that Chelsea are still interested in the 26-year-old, having agreed a deal in principle with Leeds before his Barcelona switch.

Meanwhile, Arsenal also get a mention. It is claimed that they have been insisting on Raphinha for months, with Edu making ‘constant calls’ to his agent.

Newcastle United are another club said to be interested in pursuing the Brazilian. All three clubs are prepared to improve his current €12 million per year salary.

They would still need to pay a premium fee to convince the Blaugrana. The Catalans are set to demand between €70-80m for the Brazilian star.

Arsenal may find it hard to persuade Raphinha

Raphinha was one of the first targets for the Gunners last summer. They wanted to add more competition for Bukayo Saka on the right side of the attack.

Saka has since had another exceptional campaign with 14 goals and 11 assists in all competitions, and he is currently an undisputed starter from the right flank.

With Gabriel Martinelli excelling on the opposite wing, Raphinha may struggle to break into the starting line-up under manager Mikel Arteta next term.

He may not be enthused by the prospect of joining the Gunners even if they have booked their spot in the Champions League after six long years.

Raphinha faces a similar situation at Chelsea with their wholesale signings made lately. He may also turn them down with no European football next term.

His best destination could be Newcastle. The Magpies could be an attractive choice, particularly with them on the cusp of securing Champions League football.