According to reports, Barcelona star Rafinha Alcantara has informed manager Ernesto Valverde he desires to leave the Spanish La Liga giant amid rumours linking him with a move to Arsenal.
The Brazilian was named recently by Don Balon as one of the main transfer targets of Arsene Wenger to replace German Mesut Ozil, who is in the last year of his deal at the Emirates Stadium.
Diario Gol now report Rafinha is not satisfied with his situation at the Spanish club, with so a lot of competition for playing spots in Barcelona’s midfield and possibly more competitions to come in the form of Philippe Coutinho from Liverpool.
The Gunner will be delighted if they can sign one of their preferred Mesut Ozil replacements more easily, as the Catalan club may now have to seriously consider allowing him go to keep him delighted.
Still, the publication suggest the move rests on FC Barcelona signing one of their own favoured transfer targets in midfield in the New Year, as Valverde is not willing to lose a valuable backup player like him.
Another claim from Don Balon suggest Argentine Lionel Messi believes the Catalan club need to reinforce in midfield, and has named Tottenham Hotspurs Dele Alli as a very strong transfer candidate.
