Arsenal would be ideal destination for £13.7m-rated Barcelona flop

Add as preferred source on Google

Arsenal look like they are about to kick-off their summer spending in some style in the coming days.

Lille winger Nicolas Pepe is set to arrive in a deal worth £72 million, according to BBC Sport.

The 24-year-old is believed to be in London ahead of a big-money move to the Emirates Stadium.

His arrival shouldn’t end the summer recruitment drive, however. Obviously, his arrival will somewhat decimate the budget, but more signings are still required.

Given that Pepe is clearly the marquee signing, some cheaper options might be sought by Unai Emery next.

That criteria should lead him to Barcelona outcast Rafinha who, according to Sport, is available for £13.7 million this summer.

Given such a low valuation it seems likely that potential suitors will be forthcoming. Arsenal should definitely be throwing their name into contention.

Rafinha can play on either flank or in central midfield and even after Pepe’s arrival the Gunners still look short out wide.

His presence as a versatile squad player would be a quality attribute in Emery’s ranks and he could play a big part during 2019/20

According to Total Sportek, the Brazilian is paid £60,000-a-week, making him very affordable for the Gunners.

Following the arrival of Pepe, Arsenal must be shrewd with their other summer business.

Rafinha will have plenty of admirers but he could thrive playing regular football at Arsenal.

The Barca flop on top of Pepe, Ceballos, Martinelli and hopefully a defender would represent a very good window indeed for the Gunners.

Having played just eight times for his current club last season he would relish the chance of a fresh start and Arsenal should pounce.