Arsenal "strong contenders" to sign £77m Brazil star as contract talks stall

Arsenal and sporting director Andrea Berta are reportedly bursting into the race to sign a marquee Brazil star, with talks over a new contract at his club now hitting a key roadblock.

Arsenal now targeting left-winger, right-winger and striker this summer

Mikel Arteta and the Gunners are in need of fresh options in the final third.

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The Gunners are convinced it is inevitable.

Leandro Trossard’s deal expires in 2026, and there has been little sign of a renewal at the Emirates Stadium so far, making the Belgian’s long-term future uncertain. Meanwhile, The Athletic have reported recently that winger Gabriel Martinelli is no longer considered untouchable if the right offer comes in.

Arteta’s side also struggled to replace star forward Bukayo Saka when the England international was out for an extensive period through injury, potentially prompting Arsenal to hold talks with Nico Williams’ representatives ahead of the summer.

Arsenal have also been linked with a move for Bayern Munich winger Kingsley Coman, with Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg reporting earlier this month that direct communication was held via the player’s representatives.

Bayern will allow Coman to leave for around £30 million (Ben Jacobs), so he could be a very realistic option for Berta and Arteta as the club look to sign a left-winger, right-winger and prolific striker (GiveMeSport).

Arsenal emerge as “strong contenders” to sign Barcelona star Raphinha

Now, according to CaughtOffside, Barcelona star Raphinha is emerging as a potential target.

The Brazilian has been a revelation under Hansi Flick this season, bagging 30 goals and 23 assists in all competitions and playing a key role with Barca on course to beat Real Madrid to the La Liga title.

Raphinha will face off against Real in the Copa del Rey finalon Saturday night, but while he prepares for one of Barca’s most important games of the campaign, Arsenal are lurking in the background.

It is believed the former Leeds star and his club have failed to reach an agreement on a new contract so far, and Raphinha will need to lower his wage demands if they’re to reach a compromise on fresh terms.

This has alerted Berta and co, with Arsenal now “strong contenders” to sign Raphinha if the Catalans are forced to sell. However, Flick’s side will still demand a premium to sell their superstar player – which could be up to £77 million.

The 28-year-old would be the ideal signing for Arteta, as he’s able to play on either flank and through the middle, but Barça are very unlikely to let him leave without a serious fight.

Raphinha also earns around £206,000-per-week, and if he demands more, the attacker would comfortably be among Arteta’s highest earners and put further pressure on the club’s wage bill.