Arsenal transfer 'target' mistake laid bare as Barcelona star sends clear message

Arsenal have been sent a reminder of a potential mistake they may have made in the transfer market. The Gunners had a busy summer transfer window where six new arrivals moved to the Emirates Stadium.

David Raya's loan move from Brentford was made permanent, and he was joined by Riccardo Calafiori, Mikel Merino, Tommy Setford and Lucas Nygaard in joining on permanent deals, while Raheem Sterling and Neto signed for Arsenal on loan.

Even though six new faces moved to North London in the summer, there were plenty more names who were linked with the Gunners but ended up either staying at their current clubs or moving elsewhere.

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One such player to be linked with Arsenal was Raphinha. The Barcelona forward was named as a potential target for Mikel Arteta's side in the recent summer transfer window but would remain at Camp Nou.

Raphinha joined Barca in the summer of 2022 from Leeds United in a deal reportedly worth £55million. After two years with the La Liga giants, Arsenal were rumoured to be interested in signing the Brazilian, and he's been in brilliant form.

This season has seen Raphinha score 12 goals, with 10 assists in 17 appearances and has helped the Spanish club claim a six-point lead over their bitter rivals Real Madrid in the La Liga table.

Opta have reported that, as well as the goal and assists, Raphinha has recorded 55 'big chances' this term for Barcelona. This stat is 10 more than any other player across Europe's top-five leagues - the Premier League, La Liga, Bundesliga, Serie A or Ligue 1.

Raphinha has predominantly played on the left wing for Barcelona this season, which is a position often occupied by Gabriel Martinelli or Leandro Trossard. The 27-year-old has also worn the captain's armband for Barca seven times this season, standing in for club captain Marc-Andre ter Stegen.