Arsenal's pursuit of former Leeds United star Raphinha didn't quite go to plan during the summer transfer window.
The Gunners were keen to bring the talented Brazilian to the Emirates Stadium before the player eventually signed for La Liga giants Barcelona instead. Raphinha has netted just two goals in 20 outings for the Blaugrana this season and Spanish outlet El Chiringuito have now reported that the 26-year-old has already been shortlisted by the Catalan club as they look to balance their finances.
If the La Liga side really have deemed the winger surplus to requirements, it could give Arsenal a second chance to sign him, something that technical director Edu may have previously hinted they would be interested in. The Brazilian transfer chief previously spoke about his conversations with Raphinha's agent Deco, admitting that he told the former Portuguese international to keep him informed 'if something happens'.
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Speaking to Sky Sports about Raphinha back in July, he said: "I just said to Deco, ‘Can you explain to me the situation with Raphinha?’ and he was clear: ‘Edu, we have a good relationship but I’m not going to lie to you, his idea is to go to Barcelona because he’s dreaming to go to Barcelona, and we’ve been talking to Barcelona since a long time ago'.
"[I said] 'Okay, thank you very much, if something happens then just let me know because I can explore and understand the situation. If not, no problem and we carry on with our relationship'."
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