are ready to launch a bid worth up to £60million for Raphinha that could end ’s hopes of signing the Leeds United star.
Chelsea appeared to be on the brink of signing the Brazil international after agreeing a fee of £55m rising to £60m with Leeds on Monday.
had been hopeful of signing the winger but Chelsea’s far superior offer left them leading the race for his signature.
While Raphinha is open to a move to Stamford Bridge, his first choice has been a move to Barcelona.
But with the Catalan giants under financial pressure, they have so far been unable to make a bid that meets Leeds’ demands.
However, now report Barcelona are now ready to launch an offer worth £51m up front with a further £9m to follow in add-ons.
Raphinha’s agent, former Chelsea midfielder Deco, met with Barcelona president Joan Laporta on Wednesday where the deal was discussed.
Barcelona are now hopeful of getting the deal done – with Raphinha’s desire to move to the Camo Nou a key factor.
Barcelona find themselves in a position where they can fund fund the move after agreeing a deal on Thursday to sell 10 per cent of their La Liga TV rights for the next 24 years – a move that will see them net an initial figure of £179m.
While Barcelona is Raphinha’s preferred destination, the report adds there is also interest from an unnamed European club who are competing in next season’s Champions League.
Arsenal saw a bid of £35m rejected by Leeds last week.
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