Ray Parlour has told TalkSPORT he would prefer to sign Leeds United star Raphinha over Everton attacker Richarlison, as Arsenal remain in the market for both Brazil internationals this summer.
Raphinha, 25, had a hand in 14 goals during 33 Premier League games for Leeds last season – while Richarlison produced 15 goal involvements in 30. Raphinha netted 11, Richarlison got 10 – but more assists.
Among numerous reports, The Sun say that Arsenal, Chelsea, and Tottenham are all vying for £50million-rated Richarlison, and Leeds star Raphinha. Leeds are becoming more and more resigned to losing their star man.
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Speaking about both players this summer, who are likely to leave their current sides, Parlour believes signing Raphinha is a better move than landing Richarlison – due to the Everton player’s inconsistencies.
“He’s a top player absolutely, any club will have interest in Raphinha. What he’s done at Leeds I would [rather pay £50m on Raphinha than Richarlison]. He’s a top player and that lots of clubs will be in for him as well.”
Arsenal: Parlour would prefer Raphinha over Richarlison
From a Tottenham perspective, Spurs will only look to sign one or the other and it is likely to be the same at Arsenal. The Gunners already have a wealth of talent out wide – Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Emile Smith-Rowe.
It is an interesting debate. What Arsenal or other parties might consider is that Richarlison can also play up top, as well as out wide – while Raphinha is really only a right winger, sometimes on the left.
However, what Raphinha offers from the right is arguably better than what Richarlison can. If clubs are firmly looking for a right winger, Raphinha is the best bet. Arsenal need a bit of everything, Spurs need a right winger.
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