Chelsea Dealt Huge Raphinha Blow As Barcelona Close In On Signing Leeds United Star

Chelsea have been dealt a huge blow in their transfer for Raphinha as Barcelona are closing in on a deal for the Brazilian.

The 25-year-old was one of Thomas Tuchel’s main targets this summer, with the Blues agreeing a fee. 

Leeds United accepted the Blues’ £55 million offer earlier this week but Chelsea failed to agree personal terms with the winger.

Deco, Raphinha’s agent, was in Barcelona to see if they were prepared to match the deal that the Blues had agreed.

Raphinha #10 of Leeds United during a break in play. (Alamy)

It was unclear as to whether the financial situation at the Camp Nou would allow them to sign Raphinha this summer.

However, it has now been reported that the deal is close to being agreed with Leeds.

As reported by Spanish journalist Gerard Romero, Barcelona are about to close the deal for Raphinha.

They will pay around €60M for the winger, but these will be done in instalments.

The Spaniard continues to report that Barcelona will reach the fee for Raphinha in three instalments.

Tuchel has already been promised up to six signings this summer by the new owners at Chelsea, with the attack and defence eyed as the priority.

Raphinha looks unlikely to join the club now, with a move to Barcelona always being his preference.

Leeds United reportedly wanted to honour their agreement with Chelsea, keen to send him to Stamford Bridge.

The report stated that Jesse Marsch’s side did not see a reason to accept any less than the offer Chelsea had submitted.

It remains to be seen as to whether they will accept Barcelona’s proposal, with the payment set to be submitted in instalments.

However, with a deal looking close, Chelsea must look elsewhere for reinforcements.  

Manchester City’s Raheem Sterling is also wanted and talks remain ongoing over a proposed transfer for the England international.

Raphinha in action for Leeds United. (Alamy)

Chelsea are set for a pre-season tour across the United States later this month, with the club keen to get as many signings in before they depart.

With Raphihna looking unlikely, Ousmane Dembele could become an option once more, with Barcelona unlikely to keep him and sign Raphinha in the summer window.

Tuchel worked with the French international previously at Borussia Dortmund and could look to be reunited with the free agent this summer.