Arsenal plotting move for Barcelona forward as they miss out on 27-year-old star: Reports
Arsenal have identified Barcelona's Ferran Torres as an alternative to Raphinha, according to TBR Football. The report adds that Aston Villa and Newcastle United are also in the race to sign the Spanish forward in 2025.
Torres already has experience of playing in the Premier League with Manchester City. The 24-year-old registered 16 goals and four assists from 43 games across competitions before joining Barcelona in January 2022.
Torres' stay with the Catalans has hardly been memorable and the player is no longer indispensable under Hansi Flick. The LaLiga giants are still looking at player sales to address their poor finances and could be open to the Spaniard's exit next year.
Arsenal are paying close attention to the situation as they look to add more bite to their attack. The Gunners are want a new face to provide cover for Bukayo Saka and compete with the likes of Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli.
The north London side roped in Raheem Sterling on loan from Chelsea for the job this summer. However, the Englishman is only a short term fix and Torres could be a fine alternate.
Arsenal would ideally like to sign Raphinha, but Barcelona have no desire to let him go. The Brazilian has become untouchable at Camp Nou following a blistering start to the new campaign.
Raphinha has found a new lease of life after being switched to the left flank by Hansi Flick this season. The 27-year-old has nine goals and eight assists from 13 games across competitions this season and has been key to the Catalans rise under Flick.
Could Barcelona battle Arsenal for Jhon Duran in 2025?
Barcelona and Arsenal could lock horns for Jhon Duran in 2025, if recent reports are to be believed. Both clubs are looking for a new striker next summer and Duran has appeared as an option.
The Gunners were eager to sign RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko this year. However, the Slovenian opted against a move, preferring to sign a new deal at the Red Bull Arena instead.
The north London side could consider Duran as an alternative, but will face competition from Barcelona for the Colombian. Duran has been spectacular for Aston Villa this season, scoring seven times in 12 games.
The Catalans are laying down succession plans for Robert Lewandowski, who will turn 37 next August. Duran could be curated for the role at Camp Nou, and eventually replace the veteran striker once he slows down or leaves.