Chelsea close to reaching Raphinha agreement with Leeds

Chelsea are close to agreeing a deal with Leeds United for Raphinha in the summer transfer window, according to The Athletic. The report has claimed that former Premier League and UEFA Champions League winners have verbally indicated to Leeds that they are willing to pay north of £55 million for the Brazil international winger.

Arsenal and Barcelona are also interested in Raphinha, according to the report. While the Gunners’ bid is lower than the offer from Chelsea, Barcelona are struggling financially and are unlikely to be able to get a deal for Raphinha done.

Raphinha made 34 starts and one substitute appearance in the Premier League for Leeds last season, scoring 11 goals and providing three assists in the process. During the 2020-21 campaign, the winger made 26 starts and four substitute appearances in the league for the West Yorkshire club, scoring six goals and providing nine assists in the process.