FC Barcelona and Leeds United have an agreement in place for the transfer of winger Raphinha, both clubs confirmed on Wednesday morning. The Brazilian will undergo a medical and sign for his new team in the coming days.
The 25-year-old was the subject of one of the most protracted sagas of the 2022 summer transfer window – with Premier League pair Arsenal and Chelsea both failing in their respective pursuits of the player. The Gunners had a bid rejected by Leeds, while the Blues, who had struck an agreement with United, failed to get the deal over the line due to the player’s preference of joining Barcelona.
Barcelona have reportedly paid Leeds a fee up-front of 58 million euros, with add-ons taking it up to potentially 65 million in the future. Leeds, as a result, have made a hefty profit on the 21 million they paid Ligue 1 side Stade Rennais for the Brazilian’s transfer two seasons ago, ahead of their much-awaited return to the Premier League. Raphinha, in his two years with the Whites, has made 67 appearances and scored 17 goals.
Additionally, the LaLiga giants have loaned out striker Francisco Trincao to Sporting Club. The 22-year-old joins the Portuguese side until the end of the 2022-23 season.
The Brazil international is yet to undergo his medical examinations, as confirmed by both the clubs. But, barring any major hindrances, he will sign a long-term deal with the Blaugrana, joining centre-back Andreas Christensen and midfielders Franck Kessie, Pablo Torre as the summer 2022 signings. As per widespread reports, the 25-year-old will sign a five-year contract in the coming days, keeping him at the Spotify Camp Nou until the end of the 2026/27 season.
Barcelona’s next order of business, following the signing of Raphinha, is the contract renewal of Ousmane Dembele. President Joan Laporta confirmed the same in a media appearance, claiming that the attacker will extend his deal until the end of the 2023/24 season this week.
The Spanish giants could also make another formal approach to sign FC Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski, who has publicly announced his desire to play for them from next season onward.
Also read 👉 Barcelona make yet another formal bid for Lewandowski
