"My understanding is..." - Blow for Arsenal as Ornstein plays down transfer chances

Arsenal have been dealt a transfer blow as David Ornstein played down the club’s chances of signing Raphinha from Barcelona.

The Gunners have been in exceptional form this term. Indeed, a 2-1 weekend victory against bitter rivals Tottenham Hotspur helped Mikel Arteta’s side widen their lead at the top of the Premier League to eight points.

Arsenal have been keen to consolidate their position at the summit by bringing in an extra attacker in the January window.

The north London club had been leading the race to sign Mykhailo Mudryk as recently as last Friday, only for Chelsea to hijack a deal for the Ukrainian wide man over the weekend.

In turn, the table toppers are pursuing Mudryk alternatives, with the likes of Leandro Trossard and Raphinha having been linked.

Ornstein plays down Arsenal’s Raphinha chances

Transfer guru Ornstein told NBC Sport that Raphinha wants to stay at Barcelona.

It had been claimed over the weekend that Arsenal had made contact with the Brazilian’s representatives, in an attempt to lure the 26-year-old away from the Catalan giants.

However, Ornstein claimed the forward would not push for a move away from Barcelona, having only signed for the club for £55million last summer.

The Athletic reporter said: “Already you’re seeing reports around Raphinha, who they went for last summer.

“My understanding is that his priority is to remain at Barcelona despite their financial position.”

Of course, it remains to be seen whether cash-strapped Barcelona would be willing to sell if they receive a significant offer for the player in January.

Ornstein on Trossard

Trossard is reportedly another target for the Gunners.

The Belgium international, whose contract runs out in in the summer of 2024, has fallen out with Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi.

On the situation, Ornstein said: “You have also seen Leandro Trossard of Brighton and Hove Albion linked.

“He very publicly has fallen out of favour at the club. So that might be one to watch, but I don’t know about active movements as things stand.”