Transfer Centre

Arsenal, Newcastle United to rival Chelsea for Raphinha?

By Matt Law, Football Editor | 15 March 2023

Arsenal and Newcastle United could battle Chelsea for the signature of Barcelona attacker Raphinha this summer, according to a report.

Arsenal and Newcastle United could reportedly rival Chelsea for the signature of Barcelona attacker Raphinha during this summer's transfer window.

The 26-year-old made the move to Camp Nou from Leeds United last July, and he has been an important player for Xavi's side this season, featuring on 37 occasions, scoring nine goals and registering nine assists.

In La Liga, Raphinha has six goals and four assists in 24 outings, while he has managed three goals and five assists in the Champions League, Europa League and Copa del Rey combined.

Despite being a regular under Xavi this term, there is currently speculation surrounding his future, with Barcelona potentially being forced into some difficult decisions this summer due to their financial issues.

Raphinha is allegedly viewed as a player capable of rising a high price this summer, and a recent report claimed that Chelsea are keeping a close eye on the developments.

Barcelona's Raphinha in action with Manchester United's Jadon Sancho on February 15, 2023 © Reuters

The Blues were heavily linked with the Brazil international last summer when it became clear that he would be leaving Leeds in search of pastures new.

However, Barcelona ultimately won the race for the right-sided attacker, who signed a deal with the Catalan giants until the end of the 2026-27 campaign.

According to Sport, Arsenal and Newcastle are also interested in the South American, potentially sparking a Premier League battle for his services this summer.

Raphinha impressed at Leeds during the 2020-21 and 2021-22 campaigns, scoring 17 goals and registering 12 assists in 67 appearances in all competitions for the Whites.

Raphinha in action for Barcelona on August 13, 2022 © Reuters

Arsenal sporting director Edu has suggested that his club will be busy during the upcoming window, and at least one new forward is likely to arrive this summer.

Newcastle, meanwhile, are now in a position to compete for the biggest names in world football due to their recent takeover, which has made them one of the wealthiest clubs on the planet.

The Magpies are likely to have to secure Champions League football for next season in order to stand a chance of signing Raphinha, though, with Eddie Howe's side currently in fifth position in the table, four points behind fourth-placed Tottenham Hotspur with two games in hand.

Arsenal lead the division, five points clear of second-placed Manchester City, with the Gunners almost certain to return to the Champions League for next season.

However, Chelsea are down in 10th position in the table, 11 points behind fourth-placed Spurs, with the Blues struggling to show their best form for much of the campaign.