Former Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere had admitted he is gutted not to be able to see Raphinha in an Arsenal shirt as the Gunners fall behind in the race for the winger. Mikel Arteta’s side had fancied themselves as favourites following Barcelona’s financial problems, but swift action from Chelsea and a return to the race from the Spanish side have killed hopes of an Emirates arrival.
Both Chelsea and Barcelona can offer something Arsenal cannot, however. The Gunners’ poor form towards the end of last season saw them pipped to the final Champions League place by rivals Tottenham Hotspur. Their failure to qualify for the competition has hampered Arsenal’s chances at signing Raphinha, and former player Wilshere admitted he is gutted.
"I am [gutted]. I can definitely see the Barca one for a Brazilian.” Wilshere told talkSPORT.
