Arsenal and Chelsea are reportedly keen on resurrecting their interest in Barcelona winger Raphinha, who has a price tag of £55 million.
Raphinha joined Barcelona at the start of the season, and Arsenal and Chelsea were keen to secure his services back then. A report from Football Insider claims that the Gunners and the Blues could return for the 26-year-old Brazilian international at the end of the season.
Barcelona paid big money for the 26-year-old Leeds United winger at the start of the season. But he has not been able to live up to the expectations. While he has impressed from time to time, the Brazilian has been quite inconsistent, and the Spanish giants could look to part ways with him in the summer.
Meanwhile, Barcelona are going through financial difficulties, and they will need to raise some cash in order to balance the books. The report claims that they have identified the Brazilian international as an expendable asset.
But it will be interesting to see if they can recoup the money they paid for him. Apparently, Barcelona are hoping to recoup £55 million for the Brazilian winger. And it will be interesting to see if Arsenal are ready to pay up.
The Gunners are considering a bid for the 26-year-old at the end of the season. But they will face competition from London rivals Chelsea as well. Apparently, the Blues are looking to add more quality to their attack. Both Premier League clubs have the financial resources to pay the reported £55 million asking price and it will be interesting to see where Raphinha ends up.
At this moment in time, Arsenal are probably a more attractive option for any player. The Gunners are on course to win the Premier League title, and they will play in the Champions League next season. On the other hand, Chelsea are going through a bit of a rebuild and are likely to miss out on Champions League football.
Raphinha knows the Premier League well, and he was an outstanding player for Leeds United during his time in England. He could prove to be an asset for Arsenal if the Gunners manage to sign him.
Arsenal will be hoping to challenge for major trophies next season, and they need to add more depth to their squad. The 26-year-old Brazilian could transform them in the final third and help them improve further.
