Arsenal Transfer Target: Raphinha vs. Isak – Who is the Better Fit?

With Edu’s departure and Arsenal navigating a challenging title race, the club’s future strategy is under scrutiny. However, the impressive 7-1 victory over PSV Eindhoven and the arrival of new sporting director Andrea Berta signal a potentially brighter outlook for the Gunners.

Arsenal’s recent transfer activity has been inconsistent, but there’s hope that the experienced Andrea Berta, alongside Mikel Arteta, can elevate their recruitment strategy and bring in the right players.

Berta’s immediate priority is likely to address Arsenal’s attacking needs, focusing on acquiring a high-caliber center-forward.

While Alexander Isak, reportedly valued at an exorbitant £150m by Newcastle, may be financially unrealistic, Benjamin Sesko emerges as a strong alternative.

Sesko’s impressive record of 17 goals in 35 appearances for RB Leipzig this season highlights his potential as a significant addition to Arsenal’s squad.

Beyond a center forward, Berta should also consider bolstering Arsenal’s options on the flanks.

Reports suggest Arsenal are among several Premier League clubs interested in Barcelona winger Raphinha, closely monitoring his performances as the season progresses.

Raphinha has been a long-term target for Mikel Arteta, with Arsenal previously attempting to sign him from Leeds in June 2022. Although Raphinha chose Barcelona at that time, Arsenal’s interest remains.

Other top English clubs like Newcastle, Liverpool, and Manchester United are also reportedly vying for Raphinha’s signature, with Liverpool potentially viewing him as a successor to Mohamed Salah.

Why Raphinha Could Be a Key Signing for Arsenal

According to Sky Sports’ Dougie Critchley, Raphinha has arguably been the standout player in Europe this season. His contributions certainly support this claim.

Raphinha’s versatility allows him to play across the front line, including on the right wing, behind the striker, and on the left. He has particularly excelled on the left for Barcelona this season.

In 40 appearances across all competitions, Raphinha has amassed an impressive 25 goals and 18 assists, averaging a goal or assist every 75 minutes.

In La Liga, his 13 goals rank him among the top scorers in Europe’s major leagues, and his nine assists in the league are only surpassed by a handful of forwards, including Salah and Saka.

Across Europe’s top leagues, Raphinha’s 74 key passes are only second to Villarreal’s Alex Baena.

Comparing Raphinha’s output to Alexander Isak, who has 22 goals and five assists this season, suggests Raphinha’s overall contribution might be even greater, making him a compelling signing for Arsenal.

Arsenal’s need for more goals may stem from a lack of creativity. Outside of Saka, who was recently injured, no other Arsenal player has exceeded eight assists this season, highlighting a potential area for improvement.

Analyzing Arsenal’s creative statistics, particularly Martin Odegaard’s, suggests that a player like Raphinha could provide the additional creative spark needed to propel Arsenal to a title challenge next season.