Barcelona have reportedly made an opening offer for Leeds United winger Raphinha, as they look to wrap up the signing of the Brazilian international.
According to Brazilian publication UOL, Barcelona have made their first move to secure the signing of Raphinha in the upcoming summer transfer window by making an opening bid for the Leeds United superstar.
Raphinha has been with Leeds for almost two years now, having signed from Rennes in 2020 in a deal worth €20 million. The 25-year-old became an instant hit at Elland Road and soon grew into a vital player for the Whites, playing a key role in their survival in the Premier League last season.
Raphinha has enjoyed another positive campaign this time out even though Leeds United find themselves staring at the possibility of getting relegated from the Premier League. Now a regular in the Brazilian national team as well, the former Sporting CP forward is attracting a lot of interest heading into the summer, with Barcelona, in particular, extremely keen on signing him.
Barcelona are keen on strengthening their attacking contingent in the summer, with a new player at the top of their agenda, along with a new world-class striker. The need for a wide forward stems from the uncertainty surrounding Ousmane Dembele’s future. The Frenchman’s contract with the Catalan giants expires at the end of next month.
Talks over a contract renewal have been going on for a while now, but an agreement does not seem to be in sight. Even if they do arrive at an agreement with the 2018 FIFA World Cup winner, another winger would be a shrewd purchase for Xavi’s side, considering they are not planning to sign Adama Traore permanently, while Memphis Depay finds himself being linked with an exit as well.
Raphinha, to that end, has emerged as a priority for Barcelona heading into the summer. The Brazilian international is reportedly keen on making the jump to Camp Nou at the end of the season and has already agreed personal terms with the Catalan heavyweights. The only thing left for the deal to complete is for Barcelona and Leeds to settle on a transfer fee.
And as per the report from UOL, Barcelona have lodged an opening bid of €55 million for Raphinha, plus an additional €10 million in bonuses, taking the overall value of the offer to €65 million. Leeds, though, are yet to respond to the Blaugrana’s proposal as they are currently focused on their relegation battle and will make a decision once their fate becomes clear.
So, it remains to be seen if Barcelona’s offer is accepted by the Yorkshire-based outfit or if they ask for a higher sum for the 25-year-old Raphinha.
