Arsenal could still ‘come back into the mix’ for Leeds United winger Raphinha over the coming days, according to CBS reporter Ben Jacobs.

The talented 25-year-old is one of the hottest properties on the transfer market at this moment in time following two successful seasons in west Yorkshire.

What is the latest news involving Raphinha?

David Ornstein of The Athletic previously revealed that Arsenal were set to ‘intensify’ their efforts to sign Raphinha after seeing an opening offer for his services turned down by Leeds.

However, the reliable journalist then disclosed that their Premier League rivals Chelsea had stolen a march in the race for the Brazil international’s signature.

It’s claimed that the Blues are ‘close to agreeing a fee’ with Leeds for Raphinha, with negotiations reaching the stage where a verbal indication has been made over a £55 million transfer.

The Elland Road outfit would reportedly accept a formal bid if it matched that figure, leaving the final decision in the player’s hands.

Barcelona are known to be Raphinha’s first-choice destination and have not given up hope of a deal, although their financial situation is proving a major stumbling block, while Arsenal are yet to match the levels of Chelsea.

What has Jacobs said about Raphinha?

In an interview with GiveMeSport, Jacobs said: “Arsenal still could come back into the mix as well.

Darwin Nunez to Liverpool! Done Deal! Hear more on The Football Terrace...

“Edu was sort of left hanging in the last 24 hours, waiting for Deco to tell him whether Raphinha, in a straight choice between Chelsea and Arsenal, would be prepared to pick Arsenal because then Arsenal may up their offer and also have an agreement with Leeds United.

“But to date, it looks like being Chelsea or Barcelona because Arsenal haven't come back in and actually made an agreement yet with Leeds United.”

Would Raphinha be a good signing?

Raphinha, who currently earns £63,000-per-week, has established himself as a firm fans’ favourite since arriving at Leeds from Rennes back in October 2020.

The South American star has registered 17 goals and 11 assists in 66 appearances for Jesse Marsch's charges since then, taking his total up to 56 strikes throughout his senior career.

As per WhoScored, Raphinha also averaged 2.5 shots, 1.9 key passes, 1.8 dribbles, and 0.9 crosses per top-flight fixture throughout 2021/22 bettering his teammates’ tallies in each metric.

Whether Raphinha can increase his productivity in front of goal and improve Arsenal’s forward line remains to be seen, but he would surely be an exciting addition to Mikel Arteta’s attacking options.