Leeds United winger Raphinha has reportedly rejected a lucrative offer from Liverpool as he hopes to earn a summer switch to Barcelona.
According to SPORT, Liverpool have faced a setback in their pursuit of Leeds United winger Raphinha, as the Brazilian has knocked back an offer from the Reds due to his desire to join Barcelona in the summer.
Raphinha has become a man in demand in the transfer market after two impressive seasons with Leeds United. Since joining the club in 2020 from Rennes, the 25-year-old has become a fan favourite at Elland Road and has been critical to the club retaining their Premier League status.
Raphinha finished the 2021/22 season with 11 goals and three assists, helping Leeds United stave off the threat of relegation on the final day of the Premier League campaign. However, the winger could very well have played his last game for the Yorkshire outfit amidst rising interest in his services this summer.
Barcelona have been the most heavily linked club with Raphinha. The Catalan giants are set to be forced into the market for a new winger after failing to renew the contract of Ousmane Dembele. They have had Raphinha in their sights for months now, thanks to their close ties with the Brazilian’s agent, Deco.
Indeed, it has even been reported that Barcelona and Raphinha already have an agreement over personal terms. But a transfer is proving to be tricky as Leeds United are demanding a fee of €55 million for their prized asset. Barcelona, in their current financial situation, are in no state to meet those demands.
It has left the door open for other clubs to try and swoop Raphinha away. Liverpool are one such club who are attempting a coup. The Reds are on the lookout for replacements for Sadio Mane, who is on his way out this summer. And Raphinha is among the players that Liverpool are considering signing to fill the void that will be left by Mane’s impending exit.
Liverpool are even ready to offer Takumi Minamino to Leeds United as part of the deal to land Raphinha, an arrangement that appeals to the Whites. Taking a step further, the Reds are reported to have tabled a ‘succulent’ offer for the 25-year-old winger through his agent. However, Raphinha has swiftly rejected the proposal as he has his heart firmly set on a transfer to Barcelona.
The former Rennes and Sporting CP star is keen on joining the Catalans and playing a starring role under Xavi Hernandez. To that end, he has rejected Liverpool and will continue to turn down any other proposals that arrive. Barcelona are set to hold fresh talks with Leeds United this week, with director Mateu Alemany travelling to England. Whether the negotiations lead to a breakthrough remains to be seen.
Also Read: Three potential Ousmane Dembele replacements for Barcelona
As for Liverpool, it seems like Raphinha has no desire to move to Anfield as things stand and they would be better served by looking at other alternatives.
