Tottenham Hotspur have joined Arsenal in the race to sign Barcelona winger Raphinha at the end of the season.
Raphinha has not had the best of times since joining Barcelona, and he has been criticised for his inconsistent performances. He has been linked with a move back to England, and a report from Fichajes claims that Tottenham and Arsenal are prepared to provide him with an exit route.
The 26-year-old has nine goals and ten assists to his name across all competitions this season. But he was expected to perform at a higher level after impressing at Leeds United. Raphinha is clearly not an indispensable asset for Barcelona, who could look to cash in on him and raise some funds for their own signings.
Meanwhile, the Barcelona attacker has seen his market value stagnate at around €50 million. Tottenham could use a quality winger, and the 26-year-old knows the Premier League well. He could help Tottenham improve in the final third.
Players like Dejan Kulusevski, Son Heung-min and Richarlison have been quite underwhelming this season. So Tottenham must look to bring in more competition for places. Raphinha could prove to be an upgrade on the likes of Kulusevski if he manages to regain his peak form. The 26-year-old will add creativity, vision and goals in the final third.
Tottenham must look to bring in players of his quality if they want to challenge for major trophies. The winger has been linked with London rivals Arsenal as well, and it will be interesting to see if the Gunners are prepared to compete with Tottenham for the Brazilian international.
Arsenal were heavily linked with a move for the South American winger before he opted to join Barcelona. A return to the Premier League could be ideal for the 26-year-old right now. He will be looking to get back to his best, and a return to his comfort zone will only help him. His style of play is an ideal fit for the Premier League, and he is likely to make an immediate impact if he joins Tottenham or Arsenal.
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However, it is fair to assume that the North London giants will have to secure Champions League qualification to attract players of his quality. The 26-year-old Barcelona winger might not be keen on joining a club without Champions League football next season.
thursday nights for the spuds ! loooool