Barcelona have joined a host of clubs in the race to sign Leeds United winger Raphinha in the summer.
The Blaugrana have enjoyed an upturn in fortunes under Xavi Hernandez, winning their last five league games as well as qualifying for the Europa League quarter-finals.
The 4-0 away demolition of bitter rivals Real Madrid in the El Clasico last weekend was another indicator of the progress Xavi’s team has made in recent months as they leapfrogged Atletico Madrid to third in the La Liga table.
According to the Daily Mirror, Barcelona have registered their interest in signing Leeds United star Raphinha, joining the likes of Liverpool, Manchester City, Bayern Munich, West Ham and Newcastle United in the transfer race.
Raphinha, 25, has been a rare bright spark in an otherwise dismal campaign for the Whites, who are fighting relegation under new manager Jesse Marsch. The Brazilian international has 15 goals and 12 assists in total for the Yorkshire side since arriving from Rennes in 2020, and even if he helps his club maintain its top-flight status, he may still leave Elland Road this summer.
Leeds United are mindful of huge interest in Raphinha. There is a release clause of €70 million in his deal, but should Leeds get relegated this season, that will come down to just €25 million as per Sport.
Ousmane Dembele is expected to leave Barcelona after failing to agree on a new deal with the Blaugrana (h/t Mundo Deportivo via Blaugranagram).
Under Xavi’s management, the French winger has registered nine goals and two assists in 1144 minutes, which is a superb record. However, he is out of contract at the end of the season and has no agreement over fresh terms with the club.
Raphinha to Leeds United – Ideal replacement for Ousmane Dembele?
With Dembele keen to end his time at Barcelona at the end of the season, Xavi must make it one of his priorities to sign his replacement. In that regard, Raphinha could be a great fit at Camp Nou.
Barcelona are in well advanced talks with Deco for Raphinha as summer target since one month, but the official negotiation with Leeds won’t start now – it will take some time. 🇧🇷 #FCB
Ajax winger Antony is highly rated but considered too expensive at current conditions. pic.twitter.com/sZPjrCD25O
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 25, 2022
Raphinha will be one of the most coveted players to enter the summer transfer market following his eye-catching performances for Leeds United.
The South American has managed to put some inspired numbers on the board this season – averaging 2.1 key passes, 2.1 dribbles, 2.7 shots and 1.7 long balls per 90 minutes in the Premier League. He has also shown his work ethic and the defensive side of his game by registering 1.4 tackles and 0.8 interceptions. (Stats courtesy: Whoscored)
The 25-year-old is a technically gifted winger who can also play in the hole behind the striker. With his pace, dribbling skills and movement, Raphinha can give any top defender a run for his money. In addition to his vision, chance creation and eye for goal, the ex-Rennes man works tirelessly off the ball, something which should appeal to Xavi.
Barcelona would loathe losing a talent like Dembele but a player like Raphinha has all the makings of a top player to replace the Frenchman. Hence, Xavi should go all out to secure the Brazilian’s services.
