Target who Arteta was ‘in love’ with could be sold two years after he rejected Arsenal

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Arsenal were heavily interested in Brazil winger Raphinha two years ago, but he moved from Leeds United to Barcelona.

Raphinha was a star player on the right wing at Leeds, and was very comparable to Bukayo Saka in both stats and style.

Arsenal even made an offer for the Brazilian, but they were turned down as he decided to join Barcelona instead of moving to the Emirates.

However, Mikel Arteta may now be handed another chance to sign his target this summer, as the 27-year-old may be on the move from Barcelona.

Former Arsenal target Raphinha could leave Barcelona this summer

Fabrizio Romano has now revealed that Raphinha could be one to watch in terms of player sales from Barcelona, who need to raise cash to help solve their dire financial situation.

“I’m not aware of any official or formal bid from Al Hilal for Raphinha at this stage, despite what’s been reported by some outlets,” he explained in his Daily Briefing.

“I’m still told that Raphinha could be one to watch in the summer in the even of good proposal, but I’m not in the position to confirm about Saudi as most likely destination as I’m told is nothing close or concrete so far, so I believe Europe is still an option.”

This essentially confirms that he could be on the move this summer, and that European clubs including Arsenal, cannot be ruled out as potential destinations.

Should Arsenal sign Raphinha this summer?

Although Arsenal need a winger this summer, and Raphinha would provide excellent cover for Saka, he may not be the best value option on the market.

Arsenal need to add pace to their wing options, and this is not something Raphinha would provide.

Arteta was said to be “in love” with the idea of signing Raphinha two years ago, but the arrival of Gabriel Jesus perhaps negates the need for a winger who, despite being technically gifted, can only play on one side without offering explosive pace.

Even if he becomes available, Raphinha would likely come at a high price, whilst also solving very few issues for Arsenal, and a deal should perhaps be avoided this summer.

There have been links with younger options including Nico Williams from Athletic Bilbao, and a winger who can play on both sides and bring explosive pace to the squad would be a much better option than the inconsistent Barcelona star.