"Arsenal still could..." - Journalist now drops intriguing Emirates transfer claim

Arsenal could still ‘come back into the mix’ for Leeds United winger Raphinha over the coming days, according to CBS reporter Ben Jacobs.

The talented 25-year-old is one of the hottest properties on the transfer market at this moment in time following two successful seasons in west Yorkshire.

David Ornstein of The Athletic previously revealed that Arsenal were set to ‘intensify’ their efforts to sign Raphinha after seeing an opening offer for his services turned down by Leeds.

However, the reliable journalist then disclosed that their Premier League rivals Chelsea had stolen a march in the race for the Brazil international’s signature.

It’s claimed that the Blues are ‘close to agreeing a fee’ with Leeds for Raphinha, with negotiations reaching the stage where a verbal indication has been made over a £55 million transfer.

The Elland Road outfit would reportedly accept a formal bid if it matched that figure, leaving the final decision in the player’s hands.

Barcelona are known to be Raphinha’s first-choice destination and have not given up hope of a deal, although their financial situation is proving a major stumbling block, while Arsenal are yet to match the levels of Chelsea.

In an interview with GiveMeSport, Jacobs said: “Arsenal still could come back into the mix as well.

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“Edu was sort of left hanging in the last 24 hours, waiting for Deco to tell him whether Raphinha, in a straight choice between Chelsea and Arsenal, would be prepared to pick Arsenal because then Arsenal may up their offer and also have an agreement with Leeds United.

“But to date, it looks like being Chelsea or Barcelona because Arsenal haven’t come back in and actually made an