Arsenal prepare transfer bid for Leeds United star Raphinha amidst Liverpool interest
According to The Mirror, Arsenal are currently preparing to make a bid to facilitate a transfer for Leeds United star Raphinha amidst interest from Liverpool. He had played a crucial role in ensuring that his side had survived the relegation battle, which came down to the final game of the previous Premier League season.
The Brazilian is leaning more towards leaving Elland Road with major European sides circling to get hold of him this summer. The Reds are joined by the Gunners, Tottenham Hotspur and Barcelona in this pursuit as it heats up to become one of the most anticipated sagas of this transfer window.
Mikel Arteta’s side is lining up a £50million proposal for the 25-year-old as they firm up their interest in his services. This attempt would undoubtedly be a blow for the Merseysiders and their hopes of finalising a move for Raphinha to strengthen their attacking options.
Raphinha, a safety net for Salah?
The question marks over Mohamed Salah’s future is a concerning topic for some supporters at this moment. While there have been no updates on any front, it would be wise on our part to set up plans for life after him in case of a worst-case scenario.
Raphinha, who has arguably been the face of the Whites for the past few years, would be a great replacement indeed. One could say that he could improve his output with a better system supporting him with the possibility of Jurgen Klopp helping him reach newer heights.
However, that has been put at risk now that Arteta’s team are looking to make an offer for Raphinha this summer. Fortunately, they are still short of the £60million valuation set by Jesse Marsch’s side for the forward’s signature right now.
Furthermore, we also hold no edge on the personal side either, as the South American has his mind set on a move to Camp Nou, having agreed to terms with them. However, Barca are going through a delicate situation, which has forced them to restrict their financial spending when compared to how their business was in the past.
It would have been best for us if Raphinha decided to stay in Yorkshire for another year with Salah’s contract expiring next summer. That would have given us a clear idea about our needs, but the current situation may force us to make an early decision.
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In such a case, perhaps we should repeat what we did with Luis Diaz and make an early move for Raphinha, with the latter looking likely to leave. We only wanted to sign Diaz this summer but decided to sign him in January after Spurs forced our hands. Whether something similar would happen in this case would need to be seen as time passes on.
