Ousmane Dembele is set to leave Barcelona for free in the summer transfer window, and the club have chosen their ideal replacement for him in Leeds United’s Raphinha, according to SPORT.
The Blaugranes have already presented a €35 million offer to the Premier League outfit, and the negotiations have begun. Raphinha has already agreed to personal terms with Barça, and will sign on a five-year contract.
In recent weeks, Barcelona’s pursuit of Raphinha has caught fire, especially since the player’s agent, Deco, is a team legend, and currently works as a scout for the club in South America.
The asking price for the winger, however, is expected to reduce significantly if Leeds relegate to the Championship. As it stands, they sit 16th, just seven points clear off the drop zone, but having played an extra game.
Fabrizio Romano has reported that the Brazilian has a release clause in his contract of €25 million that will kick in only if Leeds are relegated.
With his contract set to expire in 2024, though, it will not be surprising if the Lilywhites demand as much as €50 million for him in the summer.
Chelsea and Liverpool were quoted with an interest as well, but the former are said to be out of the running due to the sanctions imposed on them by the British government.
Raphinha has scored nine goals and given three assists in the Premier League this season, while creating an incredible nine big chances.
