Jack Wilshere urges Arsenal to sign Leeds star Raphinha before rivals Tottenham

Former Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere has urged his old club to beat their north-London rivals in the race for Leeds forward Raphinha.

The 25-year-old is reportedly set to leave Leeds this summer, and looks likely to be staying in England due to financial struggles at his ideal club Barcelona.

Raphinha scored 11 Premier League goals for Leeds last season as he helped them come out on the right side of a relegation battle. 

Former Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere has urged his old club to sign Raphinha 

 Brazil international Raphinha scored 11 goals in the Premier League for Leeds last year

According to reports in The Athletic, Leeds are ‘sympathetic to Raphinha’s ambition’ and will not stop him leaving if their valuation is met.

They also reported that both North London clubs are interested in the winger, but that Tottenham will stop pursuing him if they sign Richarlison from Everton.

Wilshere believes Raphinha would be an excellent signing for the Gunners. He told talkSPORT: ‘For someone who’s only been in England for two years, he’s got a lot of experience.

‘He came to England and just clicked straight away. He was in a relegation battle last year so he knows he’s up for a fight. I think he’d be a good one for Arsenal. He’ll be expensive, of course he will.’ 

Arsenal have also been heavily linked with Manchester City’s Gabriel Jesus, and recently confirmed the signing of Fabio Vieira from Porto.

Mikel Arteta’s side would benefit from acquiring extra goal scorers as they look to push for Champions League qualification next season.