Mikel Arteta has been given a significant boost in his chase for Raphinha this summer after both Tottenham and Chelsea decided to prioritise other targets. The Athletic is reporting that Arsenal are now viewed as the current favourites to secure the Brazilian's services, with Spurs concentrating on Richarlison and Chelsea eyeing Raheem Sterling.
Both clubs were said to be considering a move for Raphinha, but it now appears he is no longer at the top of the list. Barcelona had also been heavily linked, although their financial struggles have seen little progress.
It's added that the Gunners are preparing to accelerate talks to sign Raphinha next week and that an improved offer is expected to be tabled, with Leeds reportedly asking for a fee in the region of £65million. Technical director Edu has been a busy man over the past couple of weeks, with two new signings already through the door in the form of Marquinhos and Fabio Vieira. They are expected to be joined by Matt Turner and Gabriel Jesus in the coming days after deals for the pair were agreed.
READ MORE: Raphinha to Arsenal transfer: Personal terms 'agreed', deal 'close', Barcelona and Chelsea worry
Ajax defender Lisandro Martinez is believed to be another name the club are keen on, and as is the case with Raphinha, a bid has already been rejected for the Argentinian.
However, those potential deals aren't dead in the water just yet and talks remain active. Arsenal will be feeling slightly more confident regarding Raphinha, in particular, especially with there being a lack of competition as things stand.
It's a situation that they will most likely be keen on exploiting while they still have the chance. Arsenal's interest in the forward has been well documented and Arteta is said to be a huge admirer of the player.
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