Leeds United star Raphinha could be on the move this summer, with the Elland Road outfit fighting to stay in the Premier League.
The Brazilian winger has also stalled the renewal talks – his current contract runs until 2024 – as he is open to listening to offers from other clubs.
While Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano has previously reported that Liverpool and Barcelona have registered their interest, he has now claimed on his HERE WE GO podcast that Raphinha could prefer a move to the latter.
Although the Catalan giants haven’t submitted any offer for the Brazilian, they have the advantage due to their relationship with his agent Deco.
Deco, a renowned Barca legend, is also the Catalan club’s head scout in South America.
Barca would be in the market for attacking reinforcements this summer, given the uncertain futures of Ousmane Dembele and Adama Traore.
Dembele’s contract expires at the end of this season, and he had created a fuss earlier by declining an extension offer. However, he is now leaning towards staying at Camp Nou.
Traore was signed on loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers in January until the end of this season, but the Catalans giant are yet to decide over his permanent transfer.
The Catalan giants would have to fork out €40 million for Raphinha’s signature, and the fee looks a reasonable one for a player of his quality.
The 25-year-old burst onto the scene following his impressive debut season in the Premier League last term, netting six goals and nine assists.
Despite Leeds’ struggles this season, Raphinha has maintained his consistency, racking up nine goals and three assists in 30 league appearances.
The former Rennes star is focused on helping his side avoid relegation, with the Whites currently sitting 16th in the table with 26 points, four points above the relegation zone.
