Arsenal technical director Edu has opened up on his side's pursuit of Brazilian winger Raphinha.
The north Londoners had been heavily linked with a move for the former Leeds United star before both Chelsea and Barcelona had bids accepted by the Yorkshire-based club, with the player eventually signing for the latter earlier this month. Now, Edu has spoken about how close the Gunners were to landing the talented attacker.
Speaking to Sky Sports, he said: "People think we went in too deep about Raphinha because Raphinha was everywhere. It's fair we did have some conversations with Deco because Deco is his agent, and I have a good relationship [with him] – we are friends.
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"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 of going to Barcelona, and we've been talking to Barcelona since a long time ago.'
"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."
Arsenal have since been linked with a number of wingers, with the likes of Leroy Sane and Moussa Diaby mooted as potential targets. football.london understands that PSV star Cody Gakpo is one name on the club's shortlist, with manager Mikel Arteta, a huge admirer of the player.
Gakpo enjoyed an excellent 2021/22 campaign, netting 21 goals and providing a further 15 assists in all competitions - hugely impressive numbers when you consider he is still just 23 years old.
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