Although Arsenal are close to welcoming Riccardo Calafiori as their second summer signing, it’s perhaps been a frustrating summer window thus far in some regards.
Before the Euros even began, Arsenal seemed determined to sign RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko – a pursuit with an unsuccessful conclusion.
Sesko was seen as someone who could effectively dovetail with Kai Havertz, a stylist alternative.
However, the Slovenian decided to stay in the Bundesliga, hoping his patience will redeem a similar award to Erling Haaland, who didn’t rush to leave Borussia Dortmund.
The other side of the Euros, Arteta then decided he wanted Nico Williams, making him Arsenal’s priority target.
However, Williams doesn’t seem interested in joining Arsenal, and looks set to choose either Barcelona or Paris Saint-Germain as his next club.
That being said, according to Spanish outlet Sport, Williams’ next move may still benefit Arsenal after all.
Arsenal ready to divert Nico Williams interest towards Barcelona’s Raphinha
It’s been well documented that, despite their determined pursuit of Williams this summer, Barcelona aren’t in a strong financial position.
The club are reportedly struggling with FFP rules in Spain and may need to sell players in order to balance their books, especially if new signings arrive.
Raphinha of FC Barcelona celebrates after scoring the team's first goal during the UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg match between Pari...
And one of those potential departures is former Leeds United winger Raphinha.
According to the report mentioned, Raphinha doesn’t want to leave Barcelona but Williams’ arrival would ‘open the door’ for him.
And to that end, Sport reports that Arsenal are preparing a ‘multi-million-dollar offer’ for Raphinha.
‘Unbelievable’ Raphinha is said to be attracting interest from several clubs in England, and Arsenal are one of them.
Interestingly, the report also states that the Brazilian’s numbers have been better than the general feeling about the winger since he moved to Spain – perhaps not hitting the levels he displayed in the Premier League.
But given Raphinha could be available for around £50m, the former Marcelo Bielsa player would look a sensible addition for Arsenal, a player still in his prime.
All that being said, if Arsenal ultimately decide against signing a new offensive player this summer then Arteta could turn to one rich academy talent.
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