Transfer rumour: Barcelona closing in on a move for Raphinha

Barcelona seem to be in a hurry to get their summer business done early this year and Brazilian forward Raphinha appears to be their latest target. According to a report by Diario Sport, the Blaugrana have agreed a salary with the 25-year-old Leeds United player and terms on a five-year contract. Raphinha has decided he wants to move to Camp Nou and isn’t interested in listening to offers from any other club. 

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Barcelona are interested in Raphinha alongside Premier League clubs, including Liverpool [Chelsea wanted him, now in stand-by]. Barça already discussed about Raphinha with Deco. ?? #FCB

No talks yet with Leeds – as price depends on their PL future and potential buy out clauses. https://t.co/iof4IPzMdB

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 14, 2022

Leeds were desperate to keep the highly rated Brazilian and offered him a new package that would have doubled his wages. However, Raphinha has reportedly snubbed the contract extension. Raphinha is expected to replace Ousmane Dembele at Camp Nou. The forward is approaching free agent status and looks likely to leave on a free.

Barca still have to reach an agreement with Leeds, and Sport reckon Oscar Mingueza could even be used as part of the deal, but agreeing a price will be the tricky part. However, if the Whites end up being relegated from the Premier League then it could get a whole lot easier for Barcelona. Fabrizio Romano reports that Raphinha has a EUR75 million release clause in his contract which drops to just EUR25m if Leeds go down.

Recently becoming a regular in the Brazilian national squad, Raphinha has three goals in his seven international appearances.  The winger is capable of playing at both the flanks but usually prefers to play at the right wing. He is a tactically disciplined player who is capable of pressing higher up the pitch. He has scored 15 goals and set up 12 more in 57 games for Leeds since joining from Rennes for EUR 20 million in 2020. 

His progression has been impressive under Marcelo Bielsa and has also received international recognition with Brazil, with a spot in the squad at the World Cup later this year likely. If the move is completed, it could be a stepping stone in Raphinha’s career.