Brazilian winger committed to Camp Nou as €1bn release clause prices out Premier League suitors
Barcelona winger Raphinha has turned down the opportunity to join Arsenal this summer, with the 29-year-old fully committed to remaining at Camp Nou and the Catalan club refusing to negotiate any fee below his €1bn release clause.
Spanish reports confirm the former Leeds United star has no intention of leaving Barcelona despite Arsenal’s willingness to offer an “astronomical contract” and present an ambitious project at the Emirates Stadium. Raphinha signed a contract extension until 2028 in May following a spectacular season under Hansi Flick, registering 34 goals and 25 assists in 56 appearances and playing a key role in Barcelona’s La Liga triumph.
His deal includes a special release clause for Saudi Pro League clubs that becomes active in summer 2026, but for European suitors including Arsenal and Manchester United, the €1bn barrier remains immovable.
Arsenal are now being forced to pursue alternative targets amid persistent rumours that Gabriel Martinelli could depart for the Saudi Pro League at the end of the season.
AC Milan’s Rafael Leao has been repeatedly linked with a move to north London. The Portuguese winger carries a €150m release clause and is reportedly “very open” to discussions with English clubs, though no formal approach has materialised.
His Milan teammate Christian Pulisic has emerged as a more immediate target. The United States international is said to be experiencing “deep disappointment” over stalled contract renewal talks in Italy, with Spanish outlet Fichajes claiming Arsenal “lead the race” for his signature.
Everton’s Iliman Ndiaye also remains under consideration, with former Arsenal defender Bacary Sagna urging his old club to beat Manchester United and Chelsea to a deal for the £65m-rated Senegal international. Sagna described Ndiaye as a “big game player” whose dribbling ability and defensive work rate would suit Mikel Arteta’s system.
Should Gabriel Jesus depart, Arsenal may instead prioritise a new centre-forward. Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez is understood to be their primary target, with Bayern Munich not pursuing the Argentine and thus strengthening the Gunners’ hopes of securing his signature.
Arsenal completed the signing of Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace for an initial £60m in the summer transfer window, but the England international has been deployed primarily as a number eight rather than as a direct replacement on the left flank.
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