Arsenal boss Arteta is 'insisting' on La Liga star after losing out on Mudryk

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is “insisting” that the Gunners sign Barcelona star Raphinha after missing out on primary target Mykhailo Mudryk, according to a fresh report.

The table toppers had been pursuing Mudryk for months and submitted three sizeable bids for the Ukrainian winger at the start of the January window.

Arsenal’s need to add to their attacking ranks was sharpened by the injury suffered by £45million summer signing Gabriel Jesus playing for Brazil at the World Cup.

However, the club’s attempts to sign Mudryk proved to be in vain, after Chelsea submitted a massive bid worth up to £89million for the 22-year-old.

Arteta’s side have since turned their attention to other targets. Indeed according to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, the club have opened talks to sign Leandro Trossard from Brighton and Hove Albion.

However, Arsenal are also said to be interested in another winger - Raphinha.

Arteta “insisting” on Raphinha signing

According to the Spanish publication Sport, Arsenal contacted Raphinha’s representatives to enquire about a January transfer upon losing out to Mudryk.

Arsenal allegedly want the winger at “all costs” and are willing to fight for his signature in January. Arteta is said to “like Raphinha a lot” and would reportedly pursue a summer deal if unable to acquire the Brazil international in the winter window.

Indeed, the publication claimed the 26-year-old is one of Arsenal’s primary targets, while the player also admires the Arsenal boss.

Yet while Raphinha is reportedly “flattered” by Arsenal's interest, he allegedly wants to remain at the Nou Camp.

The Brazil international only signed for the Catalan giants last summer, in a deal worth £55million.

While it is unlikely he would push for a move so soon after arriving in La Liga, it remains to be seen whether cash-strapped Barcelona would be willing to sell if they receive a significant offer for the player this month.