Barcelona have reportedly beaten Chelsea to win the race to sign Raphinha. The preference for the winger was always to sign for Barcelona. It seems like the player has got his wish.
The Catalan club are set to match the offer of Chelsea. Personal terms have already been agreed with the player. The player will sign a five-year contract after the La Liga side agrees on all the details with Leeds.
RAPHINHA AND BARCELONA TRANSFER SAGA FULL STORY
According to reports, the Spanish giants are set to land the Leeds United playmaker. Chelsea had a bid accepted for him. However, his preference always was to join Barcelona. The deal is reportedly worth around £63m. The total fee has reportedly matched Chelsea’s bid for the forward. This is set to be a big blow for the Blues who had set sights on him as a marquee player.
Initially, Barcelona were unable to meet the asking price of Leeds United for Raphinha. However, they had sprung into action when Chelsea agreed a fee with the Yorkshire club. Despite, the Blues agreeing a fee for the forward, the Brazilian international refused to discuss personal terms. He only wanted a move to Barcelona. Raphinha has been pushing Leeds to accept the bids by Barcelona. It looks like he got his wish. Although, Barcelona had to match the bid of Chelsea.
WHAT NEXT FOR CHELSEA?
However, Chelsea will keep on looking for alternatives. Raheem Sterling is currently having his medical to complete his move to Chelsea. He will be leaving Manchester City. The deal of Nathan Ake is also progressing very well. The clubs are in advanced negotiations regarding the transfer. Nathan Ake has already agreed personal terms with Chelsea. The player is also set to leave City with Sterling.
However, Chelsea continue to be linked with Cristiano Ronaldo and Matthijs De Ligt. But, both the deals are complicated. Manchester United have already said Ronaldo is not for sale. Matthijs De Ligt is also complicated as he prefers a move to Bayern Munich. The Blues are yet to sign any player in this summer transfer window. However, the new owners are making progress slowly and effectively to avoid any mistakes.
The latest development of Raphinha will result in him joining his dream club Barcelona. It will also end his stay at Leeds after spending two years. The winger has scored 17 goals in 67 appearances for the Yorkshire club. He also helped the club avoid relegation to the Championship last season.
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