Arsenal are in ‘direct negotiations’ for Leeds winger Raphinha, but face competition from a number of interested clubs.
The north Londoners are interested in a deal to sign the Brazilian this summer and have opened negotiations with Leeds over a potential deal, though a move is complicated given significant competition from both England and Europe.
Fabrizio Romano has revealed that the Gunners first expressed their interest in March and are in talks, whilst both Chelsea and Tottenham are monitoring his situation and have made contract.
Barcelona are also among the front runners and have agreed personal terms with the 25-year-old, but have failed to reach an agreement with Leeds over a potential fee.
Raphinha situation. 🚨🇧🇷 #LUFC
▫️ Barcelona agreed personal terms with Raphinha, but no agreement on fee with Leeds.
▫️ Arsenal are in direct negotiations with Leeds, interested since March.
▫️ Both Chelsea & Tottenham have been in contact too.
▫️ Fee could be around 65/75m. pic.twitter.com/39igUIOTqV
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 20, 2022
Raphinha has shone since signing for Leeds in a £17m deal from Rennes in 2020 and was the club’s stand-out performer in a disappointing Premier League campaign last term.
The Brazil international – who is valued at around £65m at Elland Road – scored 11 goals and provided three assists in 35 appearances for Jesse Marsch’s side and has expressed his desire to leave in order to play European football.
Raphinha is keen to test himself at a higher level as he looks to earn a regular place in the Brazil side ahead of the 2022 World Cup, having scored three goals in nine caps since his international debut in 2021.
