Jack Wilshere has urged Arsenal to sign Raphinha from Leeds United as the Gunners continue to be linked with the Barcelona target.
Raphinha has emerged as one of the most brilliant attacking talents available for sale in the current window. The Brazilian’s high-octane performances for Leeds United in the last two years have attracted the attention of some top clubs, with the winger eager to depart Elland Road.
Barcelona were considered early favourites to sign the Brazilian international, although financial regulations prevented the club from concluding the deal. The Leeds United forward is eager to join the Catalan giants, but he could also be open to joining another Premier League.
With many suitors, including Barcelona, raising concerns over Leeds United’s asking price, Raphinha could now be available for a reported €40 million. In the last week or so, Arsenal have emerged as a strong contender, with Mikel Arteta seeking the Brazilian to improve his attacking options.
The Gunners are reportedly optimistic about signing Raphinha after rapidly moving in the transfer window to secure their primary targets. Arsenal reached an agreement to sign Fabio Vieira from FC Porto and could now be looking to conclude other important deals.
“He’ll be a good one for Arsenal!” ✅
“He came to England and just clicked
straight away. He’s got experience..”Jack Wilshere says Raphinha would be a great signing for #AFC this summer. ? pic.twitter.com/W1IapoU3lY
— talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) June 16, 2022
Former Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere has urged the Gunners to sign Raphinha, insisting the Brazilian could be a fantastic signing. His comments on talkSPORT were quoted by Daily Mail, as the midfielder pointed at Raphinha’s experience, which could help him slot straight into the Arsenal eleven.
Wilshere said, “For someone who’s only been in England for two years, he’s got a lot of experience. He came to England and just clicked straight away. He was in a relegation battle last year, so he knows he’s up for a fight. I think he’d be a good one for Arsenal. He’ll be expensive, of course, he will.”
In fairness, Arsenal already have Bukayo Saka occupying the right flank, which is the preferred position for the Leeds United forward. However, signing Raphinha would let the Gunners improve their attacking quality massively, and he could be a solid addition, although Barcelona’s interest complicates matters.
The north Londoners are also chasing Youri Tielemans despite reports insisting they have cooled their interest in the Belgian playmaker. Moreover, Arsenal are firmly on the trail of Gabriel Jesus and pursuing Ajax defender Lisandro Martinez.
