Barcelona Likely To Drop Out Of Raphinha Race As Xavi Launches Dembele Plea

Having been in talks with Raphinha for the majority of the transfer window, it is looking increasingly likely that Barcelona will drop out of the race for the Brazilian winger as Xavi has informed the Barcelona board that he wants Ousmane Dembele to stay next season.

An exclusive reveal from El Chiringuito TV has revealed that Barcelona manager Xavi has informed the board that he wants Ousmane Dembele to remain at the club.

The 25-year-old arrived at the Camp Nou with much acclaim having thrived in Dortmund, but the Frenchman’s career has been littered with lengthy injuries which have robbed him of the stage to display his talents.

Barcelona had been in talks with Raphinha’s camp since the early months of the year determining whether a move would be plausible. However, given the financial difficulties facing the club along with new suitors chasing the Brazilian, it seems the Spanish giants won’t have the funds to facilitate the move making the desire to keep Dembele even more pressing.

With Barcelona fading in the race, Arsenal have emerged as a prime candidate seeking the services of the 25-year-old Brazilian.

Dembele was expected to leave Barcelona this summer but could stay.

Reports claim they have been in contact with his representation since March and are looking to place a formal offer soon.

Raphinha was a catalyst in Leeds survival last year contributing 11 goals and adding 3 assists to that also. His pace, dribbling and direct nature caused nightmares for Premier League defences throughout last season and he managed to establish himself as one on the premier wingers in the league.

Topics: Arsenal, Barcelona, Transfers, Raphinha

Tim Fadipe

Tim Fadipe is an Arsenal writer and contributor to SPORTbible, focusing on features, transfer news and team news.

@_TimF