Barcelona are stepping up their pursuit of long-term Liverpool target Raphinha, who is also on Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham’s summer wish lists.
According to SPORT, the La Liga giants are confident they can convince the Leeds United talisman of a switch from the Premier League to the Camp Nou.
The report suggests the move is entering its final stages with personal terms agreed, with both clubs now only needing to agree on a transfer fee.
The news will come as a blow to Liverpool and Jurgen Klopp, who have reportedly held Raphinha in high regard for some time now; he was also touted to be the ideal Mohamed Salah replacement should he leave the club.
Raphinha deal. Barcelona have full agreement with his agent Deco since February on a five year deal but Leeds want €55m, no plan to change their price tag. 🇧🇷 #FCB
Barça need to be fast as Premier League clubs are back in the race, including Arsenal – but no bid submitted yet.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 19, 2022
There is still a chance Liverpool could get their man, Barcelona seem to be facing a huge stumbling block in agreeing on a suitable transfer fee, with Leeds not willing to budge on their €55 million valuation of the 25-year-old.
The Brazil international made 36 appearances for Leeds last season, scoring 11 times and providing three assists; he would certainly be a fine addition to any team he chooses to join.