3 reasons why Raphinha is the perfect signing for Arsenal

Leeds winger Raphinha has been linked with a move away from Elland Road, and the Gunners are reportedly interested in the 25-year-old.

With the transfer window officially open, Arsenal can go about its business of recruiting players. Gabriel Jesus and Youri Tielemans have been two of the more prominent names to be linked with the club.

But rumours have been circulating that Leeds winger Raphinha is now on the transfer wishlist of Mikel Arteta. The Brazilian winger scored 11 Premier League goals last campaign and would add an extra dimension to the Gunners’ attack.

With much of the club’s focus being on securing the Jesus and Tielemans deals, the opportunity to perhaps grab a ready-made Premier League player is reportedly there for the taking.

3 reasons why Raphinha is perfect for Arsenal

If the Gunners did pursue the 25-year-old, would he be a good fit in north London? I look at why the speedy Brazilian is the perfect signing for Arsenal.

1. Fits Arsenal’s style of play

https://twitter.com/goal/status/1428113452653072384?s=20&t=tiOkC3Fc1RSU7_-91HzKsg

The tricky winger has everything needed to be a serious player at the Emirates. With incredible close control and unreal dribbling ability, the 25-year-old was one of the division’s most consistent performers throughout the year, often making a mockery of opposing full-backs.

With Mikel Arteta liking to heap pressure on the opposition without the ball, that is right in the Brazilian’s wheelhouse as he loves the defensive side of the game. His versatility is another trait Arteta will love.

The Spaniard likes his players to be able to play in multiple positions which Raphinha can do. He can operate on either wing or play the number ten role to aplomb. While the winger is severely left-footed, he is not shy from using his right either, which makes stopping him incredibly tricky as most times, he can go either side of the defender, and more often than not, he goes right by them.

The Brazilian is also calm and composed in front of goal, something that Arsenal forwards of late are not. Given how many opportunities could come his way with the likes of Martin Odegaard and Thomas Partey threading balls in behind, Raphinha’s ability to tuck away chances will make him an instant hit at the Emirates.

His football IQ is also something that should be noted. With the players mentioned above, the Brazilian has the chance to link up and dazzle opposing defenders with his stellar combination play. Imagine the havoc he could cause for Arsenal next season.

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