### Arsenal Eye £75m Move for Barcelona Star Raphinha as Mikel Arteta Pushes for Reinforcements
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is reportedly urging the club’s hierarchy to pursue a move for Barcelona’s Brazilian winger Raphinha. According to sources, the Gunners are prepared to table a £75 million bid to secure the forward’s services as they continue their push for the Premier League title.
#### **Arsenal’s Recruitment Strategy Post-Edu**
This transfer push comes at a time of transition for Arsenal’s management team following the resignation of sporting director Edu last week after a successful five-year stint. Despite Edu’s departure, Arsenal’s recruitment operations remain robust, with preparations for major deals often starting well in advance.
Interim director Jason Ayto has already been involved in key discussions. A recent transfer strategy meeting in the United States included Arteta, managing director Richard Garlick, director Tim Lewis, and club owners Stan and Josh Kroenke. Among the priorities discussed was the need for attacking reinforcements next summer, with both Leroy Sané and a prolific striker on Arsenal’s radar.
#### **Forward Options Under Consideration**
Arsenal have faced challenges in attack this season, with inconsistent performances from Gabriel Jesus and added pressure on Kai Havertz to lead the line. While Newcastle’s Alexander Isak has been linked due to contract negotiations stalling at his current club, Raphinha has emerged as a primary target.
#### **Raphinha’s Stellar Form Draws Interest**
Raphinha has been in sensational form during the 2024/25 season, contributing 12 goals and 10 assists in all competitions for Barcelona. His performances have caught the eye of several elite clubs, but Arsenal appear ready to make a serious move for the Brazilian.
Reports from Spain, relayed by *Sportskeeda*, suggest that Arteta is personally lobbying Arsenal’s board to sign Raphinha, who has become a key figure under Barcelona manager Hansi Flick. Flick recently praised the winger’s contributions, saying:
> “He is a good example of how the team can function. He always has a good attitude in training and in matches. For us, he is very important, also because of the counter-pressing he does and how he prepares to score.
> He has good dynamics with the ball and has had an extraordinary match. His offensive and defensive dynamics, and his good technique, are something special. I have never had a player like him, and he helps us a lot.”
#### **What Raphinha Could Bring to Arsenal**
Known for his creativity, work ethic, and versatility, Raphinha’s addition would address Arsenal’s need for a dynamic attacker who can provide goals and assists while also contributing defensively. His proven track record in the Premier League during his time at Leeds United makes him an attractive option for the Gunners.
#### **Conclusion**
While it remains to be seen whether Arsenal will succeed in their pursuit of Raphinha, the club’s willingness to back Arteta with a significant investment underscores their ambition to compete at the highest level. With the January transfer window looming, this potential deal could be pivotal in Arsenal’s push for silverware this season.
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