Arsenal target Raphinha brands transfer rumours 'fake news' in major blow for Arteta
Arsenal transfer target Raphinha has pointed to rumors regarding his move to the Premier League in a blow to Mikel Arteta.
The Gunners are said to be looking for a right winger this summer to help ease the burden on Bukayo Saka.
Raphinha has emerged as a potential addition, with Barcelona having to cut costs to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations.
According to the Daily Mail, the Spanish giants will need to raise nearly £180m from player sales, leaving Arsenal to take advantage.
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The north London side almost missed out on signing the Brazilian from Leeds last summer but are said to be intent on resurrecting their pursuit. Meanwhile, Spanish newspaper Diario Sport claim that Newcastle have contacted Barca about a potential deal.
However, when it comes to Raphinha, rumors don't have much of a place.
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What did he say?
Addressing the speculation surrounding his future, Raphinha said (quoted via Football365):
"Fake news. Anyone sharing this news is uninformed [and] unprofessional.
Despite a slow start in Spain, Raphinha has shown some quality this season and looks set to be an important part of Xavi's plans going forward. The 26-year-old has scored 10 goals and provided another 11 assists in all competitions this season.
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"He's very good. Not just because of his goals, but also because of his defensive work," Xavi said in February. "He's a [very] criticized player. But he's done a lot and we appreciate him a lot. “We will always support Raphinha. He is the future of Barcelona.
Raphinha is more likely to stay at Camp Nou after it was reported that Lionel Messi would move to Saudi Arabia at the end of the season.
The seven-time Ballon d'Or winner has confirmed he will leave Paris Saint-Germain at the end of the season, with a historic reunion with Barcelona in sight.
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But with this move scrapped, Raphinha seems destined to retain her place on the team.
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