Chelsea are open to negotiating with Barcelona for Raphinha. (Photo by ANDER GILLENEA / AFP) (Photo by ANDER GILLENEA/AFP via Getty Images)
After missing out on Raphinha during the previous summer transfer window, (h/t Sport) Chelsea are prepared to start negotiations with Barcelona over his acquisition.
The Brazilian winger is reportedly thinking about leaving the team because he thinks Lionel Messi’s arrival will limit his opportunities. More so, manager Xavi Hernandez appears to favour Ousmane Dembele over the Brazilian.
The former Leeds United winger is now a target for the Blues, who will have to outbid Newcastle United for his services. It is also understood that Barcelona are prepared to accept £70 million ($80 million) for the former Leeds United winger.
The West Londoners have been vying to recruit the 26-year-old for a while now. They attempted to do so last summer but he chose to sign with Barcelona.
The Brazilian has had a sluggish start since joining them, however, with just seven goals and six assists in 37 La Liga outings. But has since impressed of late and has stepped up following Dembele’s injury.
However, he now worries that his playing time may be restricted at the Spanish club and is considering returning to the Premier League. Raphinha is a match-winner on his day and given his experience in the Premier League, he could slot in easily at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea could do with wingers who can make an instant impact, given their struggles up front. Raphinha will be difficult to sign with Newcastle amid other suitors because the Magpies appear likely to play in the Champions League next year.
However, they haven’t often competed or frequently placed in the top four, so we might be a better choice for him. We frequently compete for trophies and hiring the right manager ahead of next season could be all the boost we need to rekindle our rol;e as top four regulars.
However, given that Barcelona are asking for £70 million for him, in order to make way for his signing, we will need to get rid of several deadwood and balance our wage structure. The lack of Champions League football also hurts us financially after all.
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