Lionel Messi did not depart Barcelona lightly last year. The Spanish giants’ financial issues are very real and look like they may scotch another grand plan for their playing squad.
For months, Leeds United’s Raphinha has been touted as their next big target, the man they want to transform their attack and a virtual formality when the transfer window opened. Their delays have opened the door for Chelsea.
All three parties, president Joan Laporta, agent Deco and Raphinha wanted the deal to get done, but the fourth party, Leeds, needed cash to oil the wheels. The exit of Ousmane Dembele and the sale of Frenkie de Jong were hoped to be levers Barca could pull on to release the Raphinha cash.
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