Arch London rivals preparing bid for £50m winger pursued by Tottenham Hotspur

Transfer news: Tottenham Hotspur target Raphinha could move to Arsenal this summer

Brazilian winger Raphinha could join rivals Arsenal ahead of Tottenham, according to The Times (Subscription Required). The Leeds United forward has been linked to multiple clubs including Barcelona, Tottenham and Arsenal.

It is claimed that both Tottenham and Barcelona have contacted officials from Leeds, but none have submitted an offer for the 25-year-old. Leeds are now expecting Arsenal to make a bid for the player, whom they value at £50million.

Since moving from the French side Stade Rennais two years ago, Raphinha has played a crucial role in Leeds’ survival in the Premier League. The Brazilian scored 11 times and assisted three times in 35 league appearances for the Elland Road outfit last season.

Antonio Conte has been making moves in the market this summer, having already signed Ivan Perisic, Yves Bissouma and Fraser Forster.

A sensible move?

Raphinha favours a move to Barcelona, but because of the financial situation at Camp Nou, the move is turning into a nightmare for both the player and club. Spurs had shown interest in the winger, but it seems Arsenal are willing to make a move for him.

The winger can play on both sides of the wing and would be a good fit in Conte’s style. Should he sign for the Lilywhites, recent signing Perisic can play up front with Harry Kane and Son Heung-min.

Currently, the attacking wingers available to the Italian tactician are Ivan Perisic, Son Heung-min, Bryan Gil, Lucas Moura and Steven Bergwijn. The Dutchman is tipped to make a move away from Spurs this summer.

Moura’s future is also uncertain as he has emerged as a target for Frank Lampard’s side, Everton. This would mean if Raphinha arrives, he would help in solving the problem of the potential departure of the two wingers.

His arrival would also increase the competition between players to start games for the club. Even if no one leaves and Dejan Kulusevski stays beyond the summer. His quality and experience in the PL both work in the player’s favour.

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However, this recent news will cause trouble for Conte if he wants the Brazilian superstar. He is a talented winger who looks ready to take the next step in his career. Leeds, as good as they are on their day, aren’t on the same level as Spurs and the Gunners right now.

Tottenham can offer Champions League nights to the winger; something which Arsenal cannot. It is yet to be seen what happens, but we could potentially see the arch-rivals go head-to-head for his signature.