Barcelona have reportedly joined the race for Leeds United-linked midfielder Nicolas Raskin on a free transfer, according to reports from Belgium, via Mundo Deportivo. Raskin is out of contract at Standard Liege in the summer and talks over a new deal have broken down.
Liege boss Ronny Deila confirmed earlier this week that Raskin would no longer 'play or train' with the club anymore, which could accelerate the possibility of him leaving in January. He told RTBF: “He will not play or train with us anymore. It’s a shame for everyone.
"But it’s a situation where there is no win-win. It got more political and the club had to make a decision. I spoke with Nico. He is disappointed on one side but he knew it could happen. The club did everything to keep him. I haven’t seen the offer, but I’ve heard about it. I don’t know if it’s a question of money or rather an opportunity for him to leave.”
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Raskin was first linked with a move to Leeds in January earlier this year when the Whites were in the market for a new midfielder, though no deal ever materialised. Liege were reportedly willing to allow Raskin to leave for £5 million in the summer, though Leeds instead brought in both Marc Roca and Tyler Adams.
Rangers are said to be another club in the race for the young Belgian's signature, but according to Voetbal Niuews, Raskin would prefer a move to Elland Road. That said, European powerhouses Barcelona are now rumoured to be keen on the 21-year-old as they look to bring in a potential replacement for Sergio Busquets, who could be leaving for Inter Miami in the summer.
Given Barca are thought to be keen on signing Raskin on a free in the summer, Leeds may have to make their move in January if their interest is indeed concrete, which is unlikely at this stage.
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