Barcelona winger Raphinha rejected a transfer to Arsenal during January. But the Brazilian may now face an uncertain future if Ousmane Dembele signs a new contract at Camp Nou.
That is according to AS, which reports Raphinha could leave Barcelona after just a season if Dembele commits his future. Blaugrana boss Xavi has urged the La Liga team to extend the Frenchman’s terms. But the winger putting pen to paper may complicate Raphinha’s place.
Xavi has long believed Raphinha and Dembele can co-exist at Camp Nou and battle to start on the right flank. Yet Dembele emerged as the Barcelona coach’s preferred option before the 25-year-old suffered a thigh injury. It is likely to rule the 35-cap star out for one month.
Raphinha has already told Xavi in private that he wants to start on the right having dazzled in the role at Leeds United. His efforts in the position at Elland Road last season also led to his transfer in July. Barcelona paid the Whites an initial £49m, rising to £55m with add-ons.
Dembele’s injury has now given Raphinha his chance to show he merits the position whilst both are fit. The 26-year-old has also enjoyed a promising start after enjoying a Man of the Match display against Sevilla. He scored and assisted in their 3-0 win at home last Sunday.
Raphinha has an uncertain Barcelona future after rejecting a transfer to Arsenal
Raphinha now has four goals and four assists in his 19 La Liga outings so far this term. He has further scored six and created eight goals in 29 outings in all competitions since leaving Leeds. Yet Xavi may still favour Dembele unless the Brazilian maintains his current of form.
Arsenal may also keep tabs on Raphinha’s situation at Barcelona having sought his transfer in January. Sport reported the Gunners were ready to fight at ‘all costs’ for the 16-cap star flattered by their interest. Sport also reported that Mikel Arteta is a big fan of the Brazilian.
Sporting director Edu also hoped to get Raphinha to Emirates Stadium in the winter sales, per Pete O’Rourke. The Arsenal chief is a big admirer of his compatriot and believes he can fit well in Arteta’s side. But Fabrizio Romano added Raphinha did not want to move teams.
Should Xavi put his faith back in Dembele and the Frenchman extends his contract expiring at Barcelona in 2024, though, a summer transfer to Arsenal may then appeal to Raphinha.
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