Arsenal Reportedly Close To Signing Raphinha

According to Spanish Goal reporter Adria Soldevila, Arsenal are very close to signing Leeds United winger Raphinha.

Soldevila reports that Raphinha has grown tired of waiting for Barcelona, who have 'disappeared' in the transfer saga.

If nothing goes wrong, Raphinha will sign for Arsenal.

This report comes after consistent links between the Brazilian and the Gunners this summer, with Mikel Arteta reported to be extremely interested in bringing the Leeds man to the Emirates.

The winger enjoyed a very prolific season despite Leeds narrowly avoiding relegation. He scored 11 goals in the Premier League last season and is adept on both sides of the flank but naturally right-sided.

Arsenal of course deploy Bukayo Saka on the right-wing but the 20-year-old played a massive amount of football last season and a rotation/competition option would undoubtedly help protect his fitness and form.

The Brazilian would also provide competition for Emile Smith Rowe and Gabriel Martinelli on the left-side.

Raphinha could provide competition for both left and right flanks.

Raphinha would have no problem settling in despite not speaking English, with Mikel Arteta fluent in Portuguese and Martinelli, Gabriel Magalhaes plus the possible addition of Gabriel Jesus all Brazilian team-mates of Raphinha.

Mikel Arteta is keen to add depth to his attack this summer and the addition of the winger would provide plenty of diversity in his attacking options.

This news will be met with excitement by Arsenal fans who have already enjoyed links to Fabio Vieira, Lisandro Martinez, Gabriel Jesus and Youri Tielemans this summer, with Arsenal reportedly keen to bring all of them in.