Arsenal in pole position for Raphinha as they ‘intensify efforts’ for Brazilian

Arsenal are in pole position to land Leeds United winger Raphinha this summer, with Mikel Arteta’s side expected to intensify their efforts to land the Brazilian next week.

The Gunners have already signed Marquinhos and Fabio Vieira this summer, while a deal has been agreed to bring Gabriel Jesus from Manchester City to north London for a fee of around £45m.

Raphinha was thought to be holding out for a move to Barcelona, but their interest has not translated into a concrete offer and, hamstrung financially, they seem to be out of the race.

This has left Arsenal in pole position, with the reliable David Ornstein revealing that Raphinha is ‘open to joining’ Arsenal this summer, and that Arsenal are expected to submit a new improved bid, having already seen an inital offer turned down.

? Arsenal to intensify efforts next week to sign Raphinha from Leeds. More talks planned with 25yo’s camp & increased offer expected. Feeling among other suitors is #AFC now leading & he’s said to be open to joining them. W/ @PhilHay_ @TheAthleticUK #LUFC https://t.co/FDYluxP0zx

— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) June 25, 2022

Tottenham and Chelsea look elsewhere

Arsenal’s London rivals Tottenham and Chelsea were both thought to have enquired about Raphinha, but are now set to look elsewhere.

The Athletic report that ‘there is a sense around the situation, and among the other teams interested in Raphinha, that Arsenal are now firm favourites for his signature’.

Tottenham, meanwhile, have instead made Everton forward Richarlison their no.1 attacking target to provide cover for Harry Kane and Heung-Min Son.

They could have an ace up their sleeve in any potential deal, with Harry Winks wanted by the Goodison Park outfit. The midfielder could potentially be used as a sweetener in any deal for Richarlison.

Everton forward Richarlison has emerged as Tottenham’s no.1 target this transfer window. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)

And Chelsea, who are keen to strengthen in the wide areas, are targetting Manchester City winger Raheem Sterling, with the 27 year old thought to be open to the move should the Blues be able to agree a fee with Pep Guardiola’s side, who are thought to be holding out for around £55m.

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