Arsenal considering move for Leeds United winger Raphinha

Arsenal are among the clubs who are considering a move for Leeds United winger Raphinha this summer, Telegraph Sport understands. 

Raphinha has been one of the most exciting wingers in the Premier League over the last two seasons and is expected to leave Elland Road in the coming weeks.

Barcelona have long been regarded as the most likely destination for the Brazilian but their financial difficulties could prove problematic as they compete with Premier League clubs for his signature.

Arsenal are hoping to strengthen their forward line and increase the size of their squad ahead of their return to European football next season, and Raphinha is understood to feature on their list of potential targets. 

There has been no formal offer for the 25-year-old and Arsenal are likely to face competition from clubs across Europe. West Ham United made an attempt to sign Raphinha in January.

Raphinha can operate on either flank, although he has primarily been used on the right wing by Leeds. With Nicolas Pepe expected to leave Arsenal this summer, Raphinha would provide more depth and competition in the key wide positions in Mikel Arteta’s attack.

Gallery: The wonderkids potentially set to move in the summer transfer window (FourFourTwo)

Raphinha joined Leeds from Rennes in October 2020, in a deal worth around £17 million. He scored an impressive 11 goals in 35 league appearances for Leeds this season, playing a crucial role as they avoided relegation. 

Raphinha is an international team-mate of Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli, and Arsenal’s technical director Edu is known to have strong connections within the Brazilian market. Raphinha is represented by Deco, the former Barcelona and Chelsea midfielder.

Raphinha is also a former