Mikel Arteta could be set for a major transfer coup as Barcelona have reportedly slashed the asking price on Arsenal target Raphinha.
It was previously thought Barca would demand around £50million for the ex-Leeds United ace. However, Catalan daily Sport (via football.london) has suggested the Camp Nou giants are now willing to accept nearly 20 per cent less in an effort to offload the Brazilian this summer.
The 27-year-old, who has had a hand in 45 goals (20 goals, 25 assists) across 87 appearances for Barcelona - could now leave if his new €50m (£42m) valuation is met. And Gunners director Edu could raise the funds for such a move in one fell swoop as Arsenal near a significant sale.
That's amid speculation Emile Smith Rowe could be on his way out of the Emirates Stadium in the coming days. The homegrown talent has been strongly linked with a move to Fulham of late, and it appears the two London clubs are close to reaching an agreement.
The Guardian has reported Marco Silva's side are on the verge of signing Smith Rowe for £35m after having an initial £30m bid rejected. Such a deal would smash the Cottagers' current transfer record after stumping up £27m for Jean Michael Seri in 2018.
Smith Rowe, 23, is the current owner of the No10 shirt at Arsenal, though that may not be for much longer. Raphinha previously wore that number during his successful two-season stint at Leeds before making a £50m switch to Barcelona in 2022.
He switched to the No11 jersey in Catalonia, but it's unlikely he'll be able to pry that from Gabriel Martinelli if he makes the move to London. The Brazil international - who has seven goals in 27 games for his country - has also in the past shown a preference for the No18, but that is currently being worn by Takehiro Tomiyasu at Arsenal.
Barcelona boss Xavi and sporting director Deco seem to have deemed Raphinha surplus to requirements this summer. This isn't too surprising considering Lamine Yamal's rise as a star on the right wing, the former's preferred position.
The competition at Arsenal might be just as tough, however, given fan favourite Bukayo Saka's hold on that role under Mikel Arteta. But there could be more room for negotiation on the left flank, where Leandro Trossard and Martinelli shared duties last season.
Raphinha had a successful run on that side last term, netting three goals and providing two assists in three games against PSG and Napoli in the Champions League. While Saka may be the main man in Raphinha's favoured role, having some healthy competition on the right wing could benefit both players.
If Smith Rowe does make the move to Craven Cottage, his transfer fee would almost cover the cost of Raphinha's reduced fee, though his wages are likely to be more of a strain. However, the deal is simplified further by the fact Barca appear to be keen on offloading their forward.