Raphinha transfer latest: Arsenal state of play revealed after Chelsea, Barcelona bids for Leeds ace

A report has revealed Arsenal’s prospects of signing Raphinha from Leeds United, with the winger also the subject of intense interest from Chelsea and Barcelona.

Arsenal have admired Raphinha for several months now. It’s no surprise, given his impressive form in the past couple of seasons. Last term, Raphinha notched 11 goals and three assists for Leeds, despite the Whites having a troublesome campaign.

The Brazil star clearly has the ability to shine for a top-six club. And a transfer away from Elland Road is likely this summer.

On June 28, Chelsea came to a full agreement with Leeds for Raphinha’s move to Stamford Bridge. The Blues are willing to pay between £60million and £65m – including add-ons – and this has matched the Whites’ asking price.

Chelsea owner Todd Boehly is keen to get the signing over the line. Clearly, he thinks it would be a great way to start his stewardship of the club.

However, Chelsea are having trouble sorting out personal terms with Raphinha and his agent, Deco.

That’s because the attacker is eager to join Barcelona – their president Joan Laporta confirmed this on Saturday.

Barca are willing to pay an initial £51.7m, which could rise to £60.3m. Leeds would prefer to accept Chelsea’s offer, but Raphinha’s desire has to be taken into consideration.

Update on Raphinha to Arsenal

Amid all the swirling rumours and updates, Arsenal have remained in the picture for Raphinha’s signature. However, they have taken a back seat due to his transfer preference and Chelsea’s financial power.

If moves to both clubs fell through, then the Gunners would be expected to move in.

But according to Goal Brazil, Mikel Arteta’s side are out of contention for the skilful wide man. They reveal no talks have been held between Arsenal and Raphinha’s entourage since Chelsea’s bid was accepted by Leeds almost a week ago.

Raphinha to Barca still alive?

Raphinha has had a verbal agreement with Barcelona over his future for months now, but the Catalans will need to sell before being able to spend £60 million on the Brazilian.

This means it is unlikely Raphinha will end up at the Emirates. Arsenal will probably start to focus on other transfer targets, such as Youri Tielemans and Amadou Onana. Plus, they are vying with Manchester United for Ajax star Lisandro Martinez.

The update isn’t really a massive surprise. Arsenal always appeared to be the least likely destination for Raphinha while Chelsea and Barca remain in the picture.

The Gunners have also been linked with a move for former winger Serge Gnabry. But Fabrizio Romano states those links aren’t correct right now.