Raphinha makes final decision on Arsenal transfer

Cameron Smith

Updated: 12 Feb 2026 03:39 CST
3 min read

Barcelona winger Raphinha has turned down the opportunity to join Arsenal this summer in favour of remaining at Camp Nou, according to reports in Spain.

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The 29-year-old has established himself as an integral player for the Blaugrana since the appointment of Hansi Flick in 2024 and he played a key role in their La Liga triumph last season.

Despite this, the Brazil superstar continues to be linked with a Camp Nou exit amid rumoured interest from teams in Saudi Arabia and the Premier League.

Arsenal and Manchester United are among the clubs reportedly keeping tabs on Raphinha’s situation, however the winger is fully committed to Barcelona.

That is according to Spanish outlet Fichajes, who claim that Barcelona also have no intention of sanctioning a sale unless his eye-watering release clause of €1 billion is triggered.

Arsenal are reportedly willing to offer an “astronomical contract” to convince Raphinha to move to the Emirates Stadium, but the former Leeds United star is expected to snub Mikel Arteta’s side in favour of remaining at Barcelona.

Arsenal to sign a new winger?

With a move for Raphinha unlikely to take place, Arsenal will be forced to pursue an alternative target amid rumours that Gabriel Martinelli could depart the club this summer.

AC Milan superstar Rafael Leao has been continuously linked with a move to the north London giants for the past few seasons, while his team-mate Christian Pulisic has reportedly emerged as a possible target for the Gunners in recent weeks too.

In addition, Arsenal have also been tipped to pursue a deal for Everton winger Iliman Ndiaye, although they will face competition from both Chelsea and Manchester United for his signature during the 2026 summer transfer window.

Meanwhile, if Gabriel Jesus leaves, Arsenal may instead prioritise a new centre forward and it’s understood that Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez is currently their top target.

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