Fabrizio Romano claims Arsenal are in talks over ‘unbelievable’ PL forward, £65m price tag

Wed 22 June 2022 17:27, UK

Arsenal have not wasted much time in bolstering their ranks this summer.

The Gunners have already signed Fabio Vieira and Marquinhos, with Matt Turner set to join soon as well.

Now, Arsenal are reportedly looking to bring in some new attacking players.

The Gunners’ interest in Manchester City striker Gabriel Jesus has been well documented.

But over the last few days, Arsenal have reportedly made their move for Leeds United attacker Raphinha.

On Tuesday, ‘s David Ornstein claimed the Gunners had made a formal bid for the Brazilian.

Leeds apparently rejected it ‘out of hand’, but Arsenal are looking to make a second offer.

Now, Fabrizio Romano – writing in – claims the Elland Road club wants £65million for Raphinha.

Arsenal aren’t the only club in the race either.

Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea and Barcelona are reportedly also in pursuit of Raphinha.

Romano claims Spurs have informed Leeds of their intention to bid, while the Blues are monitoring proceedings.

As for Barcelona, they reportedly agreed personal terms months ago, but aren’t planning to go over £40million.

Arsenal have a big decision to make – TBR View

Raphinha has proven himself to be one of the most exciting attacking talents in the Premier League.

Last season, he scored 11 goals contributed three assists from 35 top-flight appearances.

“Raph’s been unbelievable ever since he’s come through the door,” Leeds star Kalvin Phillips told back in May.

“He’s had a lot of critics over the last few months but his attitude and the way he has stuck at it, the way he has played has been unbelievable.”

Raphinha would be a superb signing for Arsenal, who’d get themselves amazing competition for Bukayo Saka on the right.

However, Leeds aren’t desperate to sell – they’re still in the top flight, and Raphinha still has two years on his Elland Road deal.

Arsenal will no doubt try to negotiate for a lower fee, but if Leeds tell them it’s £65million or nothing, then they have a big decision to make.

A wide player isn’t exactly a priority, and Saka is likely to remain first-choice on the right – so £65million is a huge outlay in that position.

So, would Arsenal end up going for a lesser-known player for a fraction of that price?

That said, if they manage to recoup some funds through selling Nicolas Pepe, they’d have more money to put towards Raphinha.