Chelsea have put themselves in the front queue for the signing of Leeds United winger Raphinha after offering a deal worth up to £65m, including add-ons for the Brazil international.
According to reports, they are now the favourites to sign Raphinha after submitting a mouth-watering offer that Leeds have accepted. The London club were reportedly observing the player’s situation at Elland Road and have suddenly moved a step ahead of the competition, which has included Arsenal and Barcelona.
The Gunners were thought to be concluding a deal for the Brazilian international. Still, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the Blues have submitted a much-improved bid for the winger whose agent, Deco, was a former Chelsea player.
Meanwhile, Barcelona have been Raphinha’s preferred destination. Still, the Catalans have reportedly informed Leeds that they won’t be able to match the numbers now on the table, putting them out of contention for his signature. The La Liga giants are still struggling financially with business. Thus summer is dependent on player sales.
Arsenal, who previously submitted an offer that fell short of Leeds’ valuation of the Brazilian, are now considering whether to increase their bid considering Chelsea’s move.
The 25-year-old scored 11 goals and recorded three assists in the Premier League last season, even though Leeds were fighting for survival.
