Arsenal are reportedly considering using Eddie Nketiah as a makeweight in a bid to sign Barcelona star this summer.
Arsenal are intensifying their recruitment efforts, with reports suggesting that technical director Edu has reached out to Barcelona regarding a deal for Brazilian forward Raphinha.
The Gunners are proposing a cash-plus-player bid, with Eddie Nketiah included as a makeweight.
After finishing as Premier League runners-up in consecutive seasons, Arsenal aim to strengthen their squad to challenge Manchester City more effectively and make a deeper run in the Champions League.
According to TEAMtalk, the Gunners are focusing on signing a left-sided centre-half, a holding midfielder, and potentially two new forwards this summer. Additionally, a new goalkeeper might be sought if Aaron Ramsdale’s anticipated departure materialises.
Arsenal are close to securing Bologna and Italy star Riccardo Calafiori for around €50 million (£42.3 million), with personal terms already agreed. Meanwhile, Spain’s Mikel Merino has emerged as a top choice to partner Declan Rice in midfield.
The latest reports indicate that Arsenal’s next signing could be Barcelona’s Raphinha. The Brazilian winger joined Barcelona in the summer of 2022 for up to £58 million from Leeds United. Despite contributing 20 goals and 25 assists in 87 appearances, Raphinha has struggled to become a favourite at Camp Nou, partly due to the rise of teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.