March 27, (THEWILL) – Barcelona has made some headway in their pursuit of Leeds winger, Raphinha, from the English Premier League, with the announcement that the two clubs have reached an agreement ahead of a summer transfer.
Since signing from Rennes after Leeds’ return to the Premier League almost two years ago, the Whites’ star has been a bright spot at Elland Road.
Raphinha has been a highlight for Leeds again this season, even as it has been involved in fighting relegation. His displays have drawn admiring attention throughout the EPL and across Europe.
Barcelona, currently involved in the process of revamping their roster, have been a different side since the return of Xavi Hernandez, in his present capacity as manager. In January, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Ferran Torres were among the players who moved to the Nou Camp.
Raphinha is expected to sign a five-year contract with the Catalan club. The 25-year-old, who has 15 goals for Leeds since joining for £17 million, is said to have turned down contract offers from the club, indicating his desire to move on.
Barcelona had to boost their offer after the Whites turned down a €35 million bid. The La Liga giants are set to lose Ousmane Dembele on a free transfer this summer after the winger and the club failed to agree on a new contract. Raphinha is expected to be a natural replacement for the Frenchman.
After establishing himself in England’s top division, the Brazilian was linked with both Chelsea and Liverpool. However, changes at both teams may have closed both of those doors.
Firstly, Roman Abramovich’s assets were frozen, which meant that the Blues were faced with a slew of sanctions. As THEWILL reported, Chelsea cannot sign players on the transfer market unless the licence under which they are currently functioning is changed, possibly with the sale of the club. That process is still underway.
Secondly, Liverpool style of play, which seemed to suit Raphinha’s high-energy approach, could have swayed the player if they had made an offer. However, with Luis Diaz’s arrival in January, Jurgen Klopp now has another attacking option. Since arriving in 2020, Diogo Jota has shown to be an excellent addition, as the Reds’ final third is now fully stocked.
Mo Salah’s uncertain future may force him to leave this summer, but speculation over a move to Anfield for Raphinha has died down, giving Barcelona the advantage for Raphinha beyond the EPL.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
