Barcelona suffer setback in pursuit of Leeds United star Raphinha – report
Leeds United have rejected a €55million [£46.6million] offer for their Brazilian winger Raphinha from Spanish club Barcelona, according to Football Transfers.
The decision comes after Leeds secured their top-flight status by defeating Brentford, 2-1 on the final matchday of the Premier League on Sunday [22 May].
Although, the report added that Leeds expect Barcelona to table an improved offer soon for the player.
Raphinha’s agent Deco has been in talks with Barcelona and Chelsea for a potential transfer since February this year.
Due to Chelsea’s uncertain situation, Barcelona have had the upper hand in recent weeks and the player has already agreed on personal terms with the Catalans.
The 25-year-old has a release clause of €75m [£63.6m], however, if Leeds were relegated it would have dropped to €25m [£21.2m].
Key player
Raphinha was impressive against Brentford as he played a key role in his team’s victory.
He won and converted a 58th-minute penalty to open the scoring and put Leeds on the path to victory.
This was enough to escape relegation as Burnley suffered defeat by the same scoreline against Newcastle.
The winger notched up 11 goals and three assists in 35 matches of the Premier League’s 2021-22 season.
Leeds would hope that they won’t lose their star player to Barcelona in the summer transfer window as it would significantly improve their chances next season.
But saying no to the Catalan-based club would be a difficult thing to do for the player.
Ever since joining Leeds from French club Stade Rennais in a deal worth £16.74 million in the summer of 2020, the Brazil international has represented his current club in 67 matches in all competitions where he has managed to score 17 times and provided 12 assists.
In other Leeds United news, View: Steven Gerrard’s vow serves Leeds major relegation hope amid their relegation battle and Marsch will be buzzing.