Arsenal have reportedly asked Leeds regarding information on the potential signing of Brazil international Raphinha. A player, that in 2021, told the Players’ Tribune that he hopes to one day emulate Thierry Henry.
Raphinha, 25, has enjoyed two hugely successful years in the Premier League with Leeds. Clocking up 57 Premier League appearances, Raphinha has had a hand in 27 goals – scoring 15, creating 12. A move is expected.
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Barcelona are being strongly linked with a move – some reports even suggesting on-loan Wolves ace Trincao could be included in a deal. But Fabrizio Romano says Barcelona are not alone in their pursuit of Raphinha.
Indeed, Romano reports that Arsenal have now asked for information on Raphinha. The Mirror report that Leeds want interested parties to pay £67million to sign the Brazilian. Raphinha wants to emulate Henry.
Speaking to the Players’ Tribune in 2021, Raphinha said: “I grew up on Thierry Henry’s goals. I’d be watching the Prem with my dad on the free-to-air channels. Henry was flying, man. The runs, the finishes, it was crazy.”
If Arsenal sign Leeds ace Raphinha, they might have their new Henry…
Raphinha is a top, top talent. He is already a Brazil international, scoring or creating a goal every other Premier League match. From the right flank, he is arguably one of the best players outside the top eight sides in England.
He shares the technical aspect of Henry, that ability to glide with the ball, finish with aplomb – but also that necessary aggression. While a different position, Mikel Arteta would be signing an Henry-like player in Raphinha.
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