Barcelona table €55 million offer to sign 25-year-old forward: Reports
Barcelona are gaining momentum in their approach to signing Leeds United forward Raphinha and the Catalans have reportedly tabled an offer of 55 million to the Premier League side as per journalist UOL journalist Bruno Andrade.
Doubts are still looming over Ousmane Dembele's future, whose contract ends in the summer and he is yet to sign a renewal. The Brazilian forward is seen as a worthy replacement for the Barcelona winger, who has been in scintillating form since the turn of the year.
There is an additional €10 million that will be part of the deal in bonuses, but only if certain milestones are reached by the player in Blaugrana colors. So, in total, the deal could cost Barcelona in the region of €65 million. Bruno Andrade mentioned in his report that Barcelona and Raphinha have a verbal agreement for a five-year deal that will last up to 2027.
Leeds are willing to listen to offers for the Brazilian in the summer. However, sorting out transfer negotiations is not a priority for them right now as they are embroiled in a relegation battle.
Raphinha would be determined to help his club stay in the English top-flight while he is still contracted to them and avoid dropping into the Championship. The 25-year old has been vital throughout the season for the Elland Road outfit and has contributed 10 goals and three assists in 34 Premier League appearances.
Xavi Hernandez and his camp might hope for Leeds United to get relegated since it will significantly reduce the Brazilian's release clause. The 25-year-old will be available for as cheap as £21 million if Leeds are relegated as per the latest Goal report.
Barcelona secure second place finish in La Liga with a draw against Getafe
The Catalans traveled to the Coliseum Alfonso Pérez on Sunday, May 15 to take on 14th placed Getafe. Xavi Hernandez and his side had a rather average outing. They failed to trouble the opposition goalkeeper and managed only a single shot on target throughout the 90 minutes with the game ending 0-0.
The Spaniard rang in the changes in his backline as out-of-favor Clement Lenglet and Oscar Mingueza both started, and youngster Alejandro Balde was handed a rare start. However, by the end of the game they had another injury concern as Memphis Depay was substituted in the second-half.
Ansu Fati again got a few minutes on the pitch and his steady return to fitness will be a big boost for Barcelona as they prepare for next season.