Why Chelsea are likely to beat Arsenal to Raphinha signing

An insight into why Chelsea are likely to beat Arsenal to the signing of Leeds United winger Raphinha has been provided.

For several weeks now, it has been Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal who have been the most heavily linked with the Brazilian and, despite no deal being completed, it did look as though Raphinha was Emirates bound.

That was until Tuesday evening when various reports emerged and suggested Chelsea were close to agreeing a deal with Leeds for their star winger.

🚨 EXCL: Chelsea close to agreeing fee north of £55m with Leeds for Raphinha but not done yet. #CFC now best placed with #LUFC & 25yo as long-term favourites Barcelona can’t afford it at present + Arsenal not currently at required price @TheAthleticUK #AFC https://t.co/cPEmDq4d8N
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) June 28, 2022

Now, an insight into why Chelsea look set to beat Arsenal to Raphinha has been provided.

And whilst the obvious answer is that Chelsea, who finished 3^rd last season, have Champions League football and Arsenal don’t, the main reason is actually more to do with the transfer fee.

As per Freddie Paxton, Arsenal are hesitant about the fee being touted by Leeds, especially because the Peacocks want a big part of it paid up front.

Chelsea, though, have no issues paying a large sum up front for the South American:

True: Arsenal’s second proposal to Leeds was turned down today. Club are hesitant around the fee being touted - especially because Leeds have negotiated a big part of the fee to be paid up front, which Chelsea have accepted.

Deal not done, but Chelsea firmly in the driving seat. https://t.co/cbIuXAKQSN
— Freddie Paxton (@Freddie_Paxton) June 28, 2022

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