Raphinha’s long awaited transfer to Barcelona has finally been given the ‘here we go’ from Fabrizio Romano on Twitter.
The deal that seems like it has taken years to get over the line, will be confirmed within the next few days, with Romano adding ‘Raphinha to Barcelona, here we go! Full agreement reached with Leeds after today’s bid accepted, €58m fixed fee plus add-ons up to total €67m package.’
It will be a bitter sweet moment for Leeds fans who will be sad to see their star Brazilian leave the club, but on the other hand, will feel relief that it is finally over and they can move on. Hopefully using the money generated from the cash strapped Spanish giants, to fund new additions to Jesse Marsch’s ever growing squad. The need for a left back, back up goalkeeper and a star striker are clear to see, and fans will be hoping Victor Orta can work some magic and bring in a couple of world class players.
Raphinha to Barcelona, here we go! Full agreement reached with Leeds after today’s bid accepted: €58m fixed fee plus add-ons up to total €67m package. 🚨🔵🔴 #FCB
Raphinha only wanted Barça since February and he’s set to sign until June 2027, time for documents and contracts. pic.twitter.com/JtLXCXa03e
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 12, 2022
‘Raphinha only wanted Barça since February and he’s set to sign until June 2027, time for documents and contracts.’
Leeds stood firm in their valuation, and it was evident in the reports that Raphinha only wanted Barcelona. His dream move to the Catalan club is all but complete. Personal terms were believed to have been agreed months ago, it was just money issues from Barcelona’s end that held up the deal. Their money issues and off field problems looked to have scuppered the transfer, but now it seems they have raised the necessary funds to prize away the talented winger.
The feeling amongst Leeds fans is that they were resigned to losing him anyway, and wanted the move to be done as swiftly and soundly as possible. Chelsea had a bid accepted and it looked like Raphinha was open to the move, but in reality, he only wanted Barcelona. The saga was a long and drawn out affair and at one point it seemed he would wait for Barcelona to get their finances in order, even if it meant staying at Elland Road until January, or beyond.
Barring documents and contracts being signed, it looks like it has officially come to an end. The player gets his dream move and Leeds get a very good return on the £17m they shelled out for the 25 year old just two seasons ago.
Up Next: Marsch still looking at USMNT defender