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Chelsea have successfully hijacked the deal that looked like it would see Leeds United winger Raphinha move to Arsenal.
The Gunners had seen one offer rejected by the South Yorkshire club for the 25-year old, but were in negotiations over an improved offer.
However, Chelsea have swooped in an effectively out-bid them to pay north of £55 million for the player.
And they can also offer him the allure of Champions League format next season, whilst Arsenal are in the Europa League.
It is an indication that Chelsea’s summer transfer business is ready to begin in earnest, with the club also closing in on a deal to sign Raheem Sterling from Manchester City.
Andy is an exiled English football fan living in Cyprus. He loves all sports but football is his abiding passion, and he still has dreams every now and then about scoring the winning goal in a Wembley Cup Final, even though his playing days are long gone. He follows most major leagues, across Europe at least, and has a favoured team in each. When he’s not watching, listening, reading or downloading podcasts about football, he spend his time worrying about his beloved Arsenal.