adminLONDON. – The start of the Premier League season is little more than a month away and transfer speculation is now in full swing.
You get the feeling a lot of the drama over the new few weeks in the Premier League will centre around the future of three Brazilian players, with a number of clubs chasing their signatures.
Leeds United’s Raphinha, Man City’s Gabriel Jesus and Everton’s Richarlison have got a host of admirers in England – and abroad – with several of the same clubs chasing them.
BBC Sport take a closer look at the rumours and the facts and ask which you think would be the better deal.
GABRIEL JESUS
After six seasons and 159 appearances for Manchester City, it appears as though Gabriel Jesus’ time could be up at Etihad Stadium as he goes in search of more game time.
He has never been considered a prolific goalscorer during his time in England, although 58 goals and 29 assists in the top flight is a pretty impressive return, especially considering his lack of starts and having often been deployed out wide. That versatility and his undoubted work ethic though are obvious reasons why he is very much in demand.
Who wants him? Arsenal appear to be leading the race for Jesus’ signature, with the Gunners hoping to tie up a deal for the 25-year-old Brazil international. Perhaps not the obvious number nine Arsenal may be looking for, but he would provide several options to their forward line.
How much would he cost? Man City have put a £50m price tag on the forward.
RAPHINA
The 25-year-old Brazilian has scored 17 goals in 60 Premier League appearances for Leeds – who would like to keep the player – including the crucial opener from the penalty spot in their final game of last season, when they won at Brentford to preserve their top-flight status.
Raphinha has become a huge fans’ favourite at Elland Road since signing from Rennes in 2020 for £17m but it is looking increasingly difficult for the Yorkshire club to keep hold of him this summer.
Who wants him? Arsenal have made a bid for Raphinha but sources say the offer falls far below Leeds’ valuation. He is attracting interest from clubs at home and abroad, including the likes of Chelsea, Tottenham and West Ham. It is felt he would prefer to join Barcelona if the prospect materialised, but it is not known whether the Spanish giants will have the finances to do a deal.
How much would he cost? It was initially thought £40m would land the Brazilian but reports in recent days suggest it would take in the region of £65m for anyone to sign him.
RICHARLISON
Adored by Everton fans and a key reason for their top-flight survival last season, Richarlison is another man with admirers from elsewhere in the division.
Who wants him? Antonio Conte’s Tottenham have been heavily linked with the 25-year-old, and the lure of Champions League football could be a tough one to resist. Arsenal have been credited with an interest, too, but have other targets, while Chelsea could also be one to watch.
How much would he cost? Everton would likely want to recoup the £50m they paid for him at the very least, but with just two years remaining on his contract, Richarlison is likely to have greater control over his future. – BBC Sport.
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter