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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It’s all taken far too long, dragged out and now Chelsea, finally free of the paralysis caused by their ownership change, are ready to flex their muscles. Arsenal moved first, but with a meek offer which was rejected out of hand.
Tottenham Hotspur were credited with an interest, but seem to prefer Raphinha’s compatriot Richarlison and the Goodison Park youth product Anthony Gordon. Stamford Bridge always seemed like the one place which could put a cat among the Catalonian pigeons.
Todd Boehly is keen to make a statement in his first transfer window as chairman and has the financial muscle to do so. The Blues, unlike the Gunners, crucially have Champions League football to offer too.
It remains to be seen whether Thomas Tuchel’s side can seal the deal. If, as multiple sources reported last night, Chelsea have got over the hurdle of agreeing a fee with the Whites, we are about to see just how loyal Deco is to Barcelona.
He and Raphinha can of course choose to wait longer and give Barcelona the extra days they may need to match or better Chelsea’s offer. The longer this goes on, the more of pre-season Raphinha will spend with Leeds and not his new club.
Just how much does Raphinha want to play for Barcelona and just how much can his camp trust the Spanish giants will have the money capable of matching Chelsea? We’re going to find out.
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