Chelsea, Arsenal, Newcastle could be in bidding war for Barcelona attacker

Today’s edition of Diario SPORT front cover has offered an interesting update on the future of Raphinha, suggesting the Barcelona attacker apparently wants to leave the club.

The report claims the Brazilian international is unhappy with his prospects at Camp Nou next season. He is aware of the fact that his game time could diminish in the coming season, especially after failing to make a proper impact during his debut campaign.

Perhaps more importantly, the report points out that Raphinha has become a subject of interest of at least three clubs in the form of Arsenal, Newcastle United and Chelsea.

The Premier League giants could be involved in a bidding war for Raphinha in the coming summer, as they look to lure the Brazilian international back to England.

Barcelona themselves are aware of the fact that Raphinha still generates a lot of clout in England, having performed admirably well during his time at Leeds United. He had scored 17 goals and mustered 12 assists in England, establishing himself as one of the best performers in the Premier League, before eventually joining Barcelona.

Arsenal have been linked with Raphinha for a while now, notably eyeing a move for the Brazilian during the January transfer window. Newcastle and Chelsea, too, are keen on reinforcing their ranks in the attacking department ahead of the coming season.

However, rumours suggesting Raphinha’s desire to leave Barcelona should be taken with a pinch of salt. The player had always expressed his desire to succeed at Camp Nou.

And despite all his shortcomings, the former Leeds United starlet has still been involved in 21 goals in 45 competitive matches this season. It is also fair to point out that Barça are already assessing the possibility of selling attackers such as Ferran Torres and Ansu Fati, so the potential sale of Raphinha wouldn’t make much sense, from a sporting perspective.