Arsenal have started their season on a disappointing note, already facing defeat twice in their first seven matches this term. They, however, have started to claw their way back, winning two on the trot and are hoping to continue their winning run after the international break.
The Gunners are aware of the fact that they might have to let go of two of their finest players in the form of Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez at the end of this season, as both the attackers have denied signing a new deal with them. This has irked a sense of emergency at the North London club to find suitable replacements for both the players by the end of the season.
Among a number of players who are eyed, one of the names that are constantly linked with a move to the Emirates is the Brazilian midfielder Rafinha. The 24-year-old is currently playing for the Spanish giants Barcelona and is highly regarded as one of the best central midfielders in Europe.
However, the player has found no place in the starting lineup on a regular basis at Nou Camp in the last couple of seasons and might be on the verge of leaving the Catalan club in January. This has irked a number of top clubs from all over Europe including Arsenal, who might make a bid for the player in the winter transfer window
The Brazilian player has been one of the most underutilised assets at Barcelona, who made his way into the senior squad in 2013 after his brilliant show for their B team. He played a very important role for the Blaugrana B team and made 84 appearances for them in his tenure at Nou Camp.
However, he had to sit on the bench for most of the time after his inclusion in the senior team, which has been frustrating for him and he might force his way out of the club without much ado.
Arsenal, who are presently in need of top-class players to hold their midfield together, might be the perfect destination for the Barcelona outcast Rafinha. His ominous presence in the middle of the pitch and his ability to thread crisp passes into the final third can make him the right player to stabilise the midfield for the Gunners.
However, his playing style, being quite different from that of Mesut Ozil, might not be a proper replacement for the German gem at the Emirates Stadium. But he can surely be an asset if Arsenal are able to lure him to London.
