Raphinha ‘very close’ to joining Arsenal because of ‘Barcelona’s disappearance’

According to a recent report published by GOAL, Barcelona’s primary right-wing target, Leeds United’s Raphinha, is ‘very close’ to joining Arsenal.

Raphinha was Barça’s first-choice target to replace Ousmane Dembele, who is set to depart on a free transfer on June 30th.

The Brazilian is represented by former Barcelona player Deco, who is still on excellent terms with the club administration. This made the transfer easier for the Catalans, but the situation has changed massively since then.

The report states that sources at Leeds state that “Barcelona have disappeared”, while Arsenal have been building a strong case to rope in Raphinha.

Moreover, Raphinha does not want to wait any longer before sealing his departure to a high-status club. Nor is he in favour of taking a pay-cut, waiting for any ‘economic lever’ or ‘major exit’ that can help facilitate his transfer.

Barcelona approved the sale of 49% of BLM and 25% of their television rights this week, which are expected to hone in a sum upwards of €300 million. One-sixth of the same – €50 million – can help them sign Raphinha this summer.

Despite that, however, it seems the 25-year-old is going to move to London soon enough, throwing Barcelona in a quicksand.