Arsenal 'to step up their pursuit of Raphinha next week' after falling short of Leeds' £65m asking price with their opening bid... as Mikel Arteta and Co 'plan to increase their offer and hold talks with the player's representatives'

Arsenal are reportedly ready to escalate their attempts to sign Leeds forward Raphinha, having been rebuffed by the Whites so far.

Sportsmail revealed earlier this week that the Gunners' opening bid for the Brazilian fell well short of Leeds' £65million valuation.

Chelsea, Tottenham and Barcelona have also shown interest in Raphinha, whose preferred destination is said to be the Nou Camp.

But according to The Athletic, Arsenal are considered 'firm favourites' to sign the 25-year-old among the clubs chasing him and will step up their pursuit next week.