Arsenal Eyeing Raphinha as Potential Martinelli Upgrade

Arsenal are reportedly showing interest in Barcelona winger Raphinha as a potential upgrade to their attacking options. Despite going unbeaten for over a month, Arsenal have drawn their last two Premier League matches and now trail leaders Liverpool by six points. Their underwhelming attack has been a significant concern this season.

According to reports from Spain, Arsenal have “expressed formal interest” in signing the Brazilian winger, along with Liverpool and Manchester City also viewing him as an ideal attacking option. While Barcelona do not wish to sell Raphinha, financial constraints could force their hand if a substantial offer around €90 million (£74 million) is made.

Raphinha has been in sensational form this season, scoring 17 goals and providing 10 assists in just 24 appearances across all competitions. His output far exceeds that of Gabriel Martinelli, who has managed just 4 goals and 2 assists in 22 games for Arsenal.

A statistical comparison shows Raphinha outperforming Martinelli in nearly every attacking metric this season, including expected goals and assists, shots, key passes, and chance creation. While Martinelli remains capable of moments of brilliance, Raphinha is clearly operating at another level entirely.

If Arsenal could secure Raphinha’s signing and he replicated even half of his current form, it could provide the attacking boost needed to close the gap on Liverpool in the Premier League title race. Though it would be an expensive transfer, Raphinha’s exceptional ability makes him worth pursuing as a potential game-changing addition to Arsenal’s squad.