Arsenal are now “firm favourites” to sign Leeds winger Raphinha, according to The Athletic‘s David Ornstein.

The very reliable former BBC journalist claims that the Gunners are now the number one contenders to sign the Brazilian international, ahead of the likes of Chelsea, Tottenham and Barcelona:

🚨 Arsenal to intensify efforts next week to sign Raphinha from Leeds. More talks planned with 25yo’s camp & increased offer expected. Feeling among other suitors is #AFC now leading & he’s said to be open to joining them. W/ @PhilHay_ @TheAthleticUK #LUFC https://t.co/FDYluxP0zx

— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) June 25, 2022

Ornstein also believes that more talks with Raphinha’s agents will be held this week, and that a second offer for the player will be made, which should be much closer to Leeds’ valuation.

It has been reported elsewhere that Arsenal’s opening bid was only £30m (plus £10m in add-ons); substantially below the winger’s £65m asking price. It is expected that a follow-up proposal will be closer to £50m.

Although there is no guarantee that offer will succeed either, it looks as if technical director Edu has managed to make some headway in terms of persuading Raphinha that the Emirates should be his next destination. That is a very positive development indeed.