In what is turning out to be a topsy-turvy transfer saga, Chelsea are reportedly the favourites again for the signing of Leeds United attacker Raphinha.
According to London Evening Standard, Chelsea are back in the lead for the signing of Leeds United winger Raphinha. La Liga giants Barcelona and Arsenal are also hot on the heels of the Brazilian attacker, who is set to leave the Whites this summer.
Raphinha was among the stars for Jesse Marsch’s side as they narrowly avoided relegation last season, finishing 17th in the Premier League table. The 25-year-old scored 11 goals and provided three assists in the league, which was his second season in the English top-flight following his arrival from Stade Rennais in the 2020 summer transfer window.
Raphinha’s debut season with Leeds was highly fruitful as well. He was more of a provider under Marco Bielsa, supplying nine assists in the league on top of six goals. His performances over the course of two seasons in England caught the eyes of some European giants.
Barcelona have consistently been the Brazilian’s preferred destination, but the Blaugrana’s financial issues have delayed a possible deal. Chelsea and Arsenal joined the race subsequently, and both the London outfits are now trying to get him on board this summer.
As per the report, Chelsea’s £55 million bid has been accepted by Leeds United, but the Blues are yet to agree on personal terms with the winger. He has his heart set on a move to Barcelona and is ready to wait for a move to Camp Nou.
But as things have turned out, a decision on the player’s future is expected in the next 24 hours, which has put Chelsea in the lead. Barcelona need to offload some of their players to make way for new arrivals, while Arsenal are still in the race.
Also Read: Three cost-effective Raphinha alternatives for Barcelona to consider
Earlier reports claimed that Barcelona and Leeds had agreed on a deal for the winger. However, that is not the case, and the Premier League club have now issued an ultimatum to the Catalan giants to improve their offer or see the player join any other interested party amid interest from Chelsea and Arsenal.
