Rafinha has struggled to make an impact at Barcelona after falling out of favour with previous managers and struggling with injuries. The 24-year-old is yet to make a single appearance for the Catalan side this season due to an ongoing knee problem. However,
the Brazilian is said to be on the mend and attracting interest from a host of Europe’s top clubs who are keen to offer him a lifeline in January. Spanish outlet Don Balon claim Arsenal are among the suitors and have approached the midfielder with an offer. The report says the Gunners are looking at Rafinha as a potential replacement for Mesut Ozil who is yet to sign a new deal and could leave Arsenal in the summer for free. However, the Premier League side will reportedly face stiff competition for the Brazilian’s signature.
Despite not featuring for Barca, Celta Vigo and Inter Milan are also said to be running the rule over Rafinha. And they are both said to have approached the midfielder with offers to leave the Nou Camp in January. Rafinha is said to be keen to leave Barcelona, where his career has stagnated, in order to find success elsewhere like his elder brother Thiago. However,
Ernesto Valverde suggested this week he would not allow the Brazilian to leave and had plans for him once he is fully fit. “In the case of Rafinha, he has not been able to do a workout," Valverde said “Yesterday was the first time he went out to work with the group, I'm looking forward to seeing him train, I've only seen him as an opponent, we want him to help us.”