According to Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona met with Mino Raiola to discuss signing a number of his clients, including a target for Arsenal and Leeds.
What’s the story?
Well, the respected Italian journalist believe Raiola met with Barcelona in a secret meeting to discuss transfer plans.
Romano believes Ajax full-back Noussair Mazraoui was mentioned, with his contract set to expire in June 2022.
It was Eurosport who revealed that Arsenal and Leeds are tracking the 12-cap Morocco international, along with Manchester City.
Now, they could face significant competition in the race for Mazraoui.
Romano adds that Raiola has a great relationship with Barcelona President Joan Laporta, which means the Spanish giants have an advantage.
That will not be music to the ears of Arsenal and Leeds, who are hoping to bring the 24-year-old to the Premier League.
Arsenal shouldn’t worry, Leeds should
In our view, Arsenal don’t need Mazraoui now Mikel Arteta has Takehiro Tomiyasu at the Emirates Stadium.
The Japanese full-back has shone since his move from Bologna, and has made the right-back position his own.
In that respect, Barcelona winning this race shouldn’t concern them too much, although it should worry Leeds.
Marcelo Bielsa has been forced to play Stuart Dallas at right-back at times this season with Luke Ayling out injured, such is the lack of depth at right-back.
Therefore, Mazraoui would be a hugely necessary signing, and it would be a real blow to see him join Barcelona instead of a move to Elland Road.
Keep an eye on this saga.
It doesn’t look good for Arsenal or Leeds what with Laporta and Raiola having a good relationship, but if Mazraoui wants a move to the Premier League, who knows what could happen.
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