Raphinha has finally departed Leeds United for Barcelona with the last of the paperwork through at Elland Road within the last hour. The Brazil international had two years remaining on his contract and made it clear he wanted to pursue his dream of playing for the Nou Camp giants this summer.
The La Liga side have agreed to pay in excess of £50m in full and upfront to the Whites, with a further £5m subject to conditions being met. Leeds were adamant they wanted their fee in full before agreeing to the deal.
Crucially, United have inserted a penalty clause into their contract with Barcelona which will force extra funds from the Spanish giants if they fail to pay up before an agreed date. Speculation has surrounded the 25-year-old’s future since the early part of 2022 when it first became clear the La Liga outfit wanted to bring in Deco’s client.
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While personal terms have never been considered a major obstacle, Barcelona have taken far longer than hoped to stump up the cash required. More than seven weeks after Raphinha helped the Whites survive relegation, he has finally clinched the transfer he dreamed of.
A Leeds statement said: “We would like to place on record our sincere gratitude to Raphinha for his effort and contribution while at the football club. He showed unquestionable commitment and professionalism until the very end of his time at Elland Road and his celebrations at the Brentford Community Stadium will live long in the memory.
“Everyone at Leeds United would like to wish Raphinha the very best for the future and hope he enjoys great success at the Nou Camp and throughout his career.”
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