Arsenal wants to poach Barcelona s world-class star? Reporter: Beita wants to help Edu make up for his regrets back then

In the summer of 2025, Arsenal signed eight new players at once. Players such as Eze, Dzekeresh, and Maduek have all become Arteta's right-hand assistants. At present, Arsenal's offensive end can be regarded as world-class. Saka and Odegaard are in hot form and continue to carry. Martinelli and Trossard are also reliable scoring points. Their multi-point performance on the offensive end shows their top strength.

But the giants are never satisfied, Arsenal is still looking for new players. Transfer reporter Bailey broke the news that Arsenal may pursue Raphinha in 2026 - because the futures of Martinelli and Trossard have not yet been determined, the team is in urgent need of a left winger. In addition to Raphinha, Real Madrid's Rodrygo, Bilbao's Nico Williams, and Bournemouth's Semenyo are also on Arsenal's inspection list.

In fact, this is not the first time Arsenal wants to sign Raphinha. In 2022, the then technical director Edu tried it and also approached Rafinha's agent (now Barcelona's sports director Deco). But Deco made it clear at the time: "Raphinha wants to go to Barcelona. This is his dream. We have been talking to Barcelona for a long time." In the end, Edu had no choice but to give up.

Now it is even more difficult for Berta to sign: In May 2025, Rafinha just renewed his contract with Barcelona until 2028, and publicly said, "I am very happy to be a Barcelona man for another year. I told my family that my dream is to play in Barcelona until I retire, and I want to remain in the best condition."

The 28-year-old Raphinha is currently in his prime and is still the core of Barcelona coach Hansi Flick. He has already handed over 3 goals and 2 assists in 7 games this season, and his life in Barcelona is quite nourishing.