There’s been another twist in the Raphinha transfer saga with Chelsea expected to seal the signing of the Leeds star ahead of Arsenal, talkSPORT understands.
Raphinha was heavily linked with a move to Barcelona, but Arsenal then became favourites to get him.
Arsenal’s unwillingness to pay Leeds’ asking price has appeared to let Chelsea steal a march in the race, with the Blues now in advanced talks over a £55million swoop.
However, the race isn’t over as Raphinha hasn’t finalised personal terms with the west London club.
It’s understood Barca is the Brazil international’s ideal move, however, financial constraints at the Camp Nou mean the LaLiga side are unable to make a deal this summer.
Raphinha has enjoyed two fine seasons at Elland Road, scoring 17 goals in 65 Premier League appearances.
These are exciting times for Chelsea, who also look set to wrap up the signing of Raheem Sterling from Manchester City.
But these are worrying times for Leeds, who are about to lose Kalvin Phillips to Manchester City, and former Whites defender Danny Mills believes the club should’ve done more when being approached over their two prized assets.
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“I think he will add something to Chelsea. He’s a good player, who’s got options,” Mills said on Kick Off.
“You would think that three teams coming in for him would make it a bit of an auction and Leeds would put the price up a bit.
“Leeds were adamant in January when there was that speculation West Ham were interested in Kalvin Phillips and Raphinha and Leeds didn’t want anything under £60m.
“They’ve now let Kalvin Phillips go for £42million, which I find bizarre, and now let Raphinha go for around £55m.
“You’ve let your best two players at the football club… massive hole to fill for Leeds.”
