Darren Bent has claimed that he is ‘devastated’ at Arsenal seemingly missing out on the signing of Leeds United winger, Raphinha, to London rivals Chelsea, as he told talkSPORT.
The former Tottenham striker, who is an Arsenal fan, admitted that the Gunners simply can’t compete with Chelsea because they are in the Champions League – even Ray Parlour agreed that it was a ‘blow’ to his former side.
Raphinha is a wanted man in London, with the Brazil winger set to head for the exit door at Elland Road, although it seems as though his preferred move is going to Barcelona.
But whilst the Catalan-based club’s financial situation puts them on the backward step, rumours have emerged that Chelsea are close to agreeing a £55 million fee with Leeds for Raphinha.
Given that news, Bent was left ‘disappointed’ because he thinks Arsenal are going to miss out on a player that has a bit of Riyad Mahrez about him.
“Obviously, you are disappointed because you want the best players,” said Bent. “How can Arsenal, at the minute, compete with Chelsea?
“They are throwing their money about and they are playing Champions League football. They are the closest, I would say, to catching Liverpool or Manchester City, so I can understand a player in that position, why would you not opt to go to Chelsea?
“Raphinha they can get over the line, I am devastated because I think he’s a really, really good player. He’s neat and tidy. Reminds me a bit of Mahrez, with the way he moves – but Arsenal aren’t in the Champions League and Chelsea are.”
THE BATTLE FOR THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE PLACES
Last season, it was Spurs and Chelsea who finished behind the elite duo of Manchester City and Liverpool, with the Gunners just being pipped to fourth spot.
But, it seems as though the London trio are doing everything they can during the 2022 summer transfer window to ensure they, either maintain that spot or achieve what they wanted last term.
Whilst Chelsea could add Raphinha to their ranks, there is also talk of Manchester City wide man, Raheem Sterling, being added to Thomas Tuchel’s squad.
Arsenal are also close to signing Gabriel Jesus, after the capture of Fabio Vieira from Porto, whilst Tottenham have been the busiest out of the lot.
Ivan Perisic, Fraser Forster and Yves Bissouma are already through the doors, as it seems Richarlison has now also agreed to move to Hotspur Way.
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