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Arsenal identify Barcelona midfielder as possible Ozil replacement

Arsenal identify Barcelona midfielder as possible Ozil replacement

Barcelona ace Rafinha is reportedly attracting interest from Arsenal as they step up their bid to land his signature.

The 24-year-old has yet to make a single appearance this season as he recovers from a meniscus injury, but ultimately that doesn't appear to have put an interested party off.

It's claimed by Mundo Deportivo that Arsenal want to sign Rafinha, as Arsene Wenger begins to put together a contingency plan in the event that Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil leave at the end of the season.

The influential pair will both see their respective contracts expire next summer, and with no renewal yet agreed, there are serious question marks over their futures in north London.

That's where Rafinha comes into play, as it's claimed they believe he could be an ideal replacement for Ozil in terms of adding technical quality and creativity in a midfield role.

The German international has been heavily criticised in recent times for his lack of influence on games, and so a summer replacement could be needed if the Gunners can't find a fresh agreement with him.