Barcelona could let slip their grasp on Leeds United star Raphinha as they look to rebuild in the summer transfer window, allowing Arsenal to swoop.
It’s being reported they are stalling on a €55million (£47m) bid for the Brazilian winger.
Raphinha is expected to leave Elland Road this summerAFP
That comes despite the fact they already have a deal agreed with the player’s agent, former Barca and Chelsea star Deco.
According to Guardian journalist Fabrizio Romano, a five-year deal for the Premier League star has been in place since February.
Raphinha has had a fine two years in Yorkshire, joining from Rennes in a £17m deal.
Last season, despite the Elland Road side’s struggles, he still managed 11 league goals and three assists.
Barcelona, despite the deal in place, have not sewn up the transfer and it appears that could allow a Premier League club to swoop for his signature.
Romano tweeted: “Raphinha deal. Barcelona have full agreement with his agent Deco since February on a five year deal but Leeds want €55m, no plan to change their price tag.
Raphinha is a Brazil internationl and set to be at the 2022 World Cup in QatarAFP
Most read in Football
deals
Man United want De Jong price cut, Arsenal back in Raphinha race, Sterling to Chelsea
spenders
Arsenal plot £215m summer transfer raid with five more signings expected
close
Tottenham tipped to challenge Liverpool and Man City for Premier League title
MOVING ON
Ex-Arsenal and Chelsea star Fabregas seeking ‘fresh start’ after Monaco release
CLAIM
Tevez will have ‘waterboy’ title at new club as he’s ‘not qualified’ for coaching job
doubts
Sadio Mane will ‘coast’ at Bayern Munich and ‘ruin the best two years of his career’
“Barça need to be fast as Premier League clubs are back in the race, including Arsenal – but no bid submitted yet.”
The Gunners, as well as north London rivals Tottenham, have previously been credited with an interest in Raphinha having experienced his qualities first hand.
Any move for the 25-year-old Brazil international would not be Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta’s first foray into the transfer market.
Porto announced on Friday that left-footed playmaker Fabio Vieira would be leaving the club with the Emirates Stadium his destination.
Vieira can play as a No 10 and also as a false nineGetty
A move for Raphinha would further strenghen thier attacking options as they push for a top four return.
They missed out for a sixth consecutive season as Tottenham pipped them to fourth place on the final day of the Premier League season.
Offers Of The Day
Bet365 – Bet £10 Get £50 In Free Bets* – CLAIM HERE
Open account offer. Bet £10 & Get £50 in Free Bets for new customers at bet365. Min deposit requirement. Free Bets are paid as Bet Credits and are available for use upon settlement of qualifying bets. Min odds, bet and payment method exclusions apply. Returns exclude Bet Credits stake. Time limits and T&Cs apply 18+ Begambleaware.org
