Arsenal held talks to sign Barcelona star last summer, player decided to stay at LaLiga club - Reports

Arsenal reportedly held talks to sign Barcelona winger Raphinha in the summer but the Brazil international eventually decided to stay. As reported by The Mirror (via Barca Universal), the Gunners were very much keen on the former Leeds United attacker but failed to land him.

The report suggests that Edu, who left the position of Arsenal's sporting director recently, held talks with the 27-year-old. The Barcelona attacker wanted assurances regarding a regular starting spot but ended up staying at Camp Nou.

Raphinha's decision to remain at the Catalan club has worked wonders for both him and the club. The Brazilian has been red hot for the Blaugrana this season and has become a key figure under new manager Hansi Flick.

The fleet-footed winger has scored 11 goals and provided nine assists in 15 appearances across competitions this season. He has been one of the key reasons behind Barca's sensational start to life under Flick.

Raphinha's reported £55 million switch from Leeds United in 2022 was largely deemed an underwhelming deal for Barcelona until this season. However, things have changed this season, with the player not only finding his best form but also emerging as a leader in the dressing room.

The Brazil international has been named one of the five club captains for the season. He is also expected to be handed a new deal with his current contract expiring in the summer of 2027. Arsenal, meanwhile, will feel disappointed to miss out on Raphinha's signing, especially given his sensational form this season.

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Arsenal ready to battle Liverpool for the signature of Barcelona target: Reports

Premier League giants Liverpool and Arsenal have reportedly joined the race for Barcelona target Jonathan David. According to Tribal Football, the Gunners and the Reds have both identified the Canada international as a potential option to bolster their attack.

David has been a player in demand in recent months, especially because of his contract situation at Lille. The striker's current deal at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy expires next summer and he has reportedly decided not to renew his deal.

The 24-year-old could therefore be available on a bargain in January or on a free transfer next summer. Barcelona have been reportedly tracking the Canada international's situation for a while now who they see as Robert Lewandowski's long-term successor.

Inter Milan and Juventus have also been linked with the striker, with Liverpool and Arsenal also joining the race now. Since joining Lille in a deal worth a reported €30 million in 2020, David has scored 96 goals and provided 20 assists in 200 appearances.

The forward has been on fire this season with 12 goals and two assists in 17 appearances across competitions.