A fresh insight into the future of in-demand Leeds United star Raphinha has been provided late on Thursday evening.
The name of wide-man Raphinha has, of course, taken its place front and centre in the English media headlines for several weeks now.
This comes with the Brazilian international attracting the interest of not only the heavyweights of the Premier League, but European football as a whole.
Initially, it was Spanish powerhouse Barcelona who were viewed as the odds-on favourites to strike a deal for the gifted attacker, with boss Xavi Hernandez desperate for reinforcements on the right flank ahead of the new campaign.
Since, though, both Arsenal and, most recently, Chelsea, have positioned themselves at the front of the queue in the race for Raphinha’s signature.
LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 25: Raphinha applauds fans after the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Leeds United at Selhurst Park on April 25, 2022 in London, United Kingdom. Photo by Craig Mercer/MB Media/Getty Images)
So, where does the situation stand at present?
Well, as alluded to above, an insight into as much has been provided on Thursday evening.
The info comes courtesy of transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, who has reiterated the fact that it is Chelsea, as things stand, who remain frontrunners to land Raphinha.
Barcelona, over the last 24 hours, are understood to have returned to the table with a fresh proposal for Leeds’ explosive winger.
The offer in question, however, came up well short of the demands of those in a position of power at Elland Road, who were quick to make it clear that they had ‘no intention’ of accepting.
This comes with Leeds eager to respect a transfer agreement already struck with their counterparts at Stamford Bridge.
The hold-up, however, comes owing to Raphinha himself continuing to hold out for a move to Spain with Barca, who are expected to mount a concerted push for a key summer target ‘until the end’.
Barcelona proposal for Raphinha is official and written, already sent – Leeds have no intention to accept that bid, as things stand. ??? #Raphinha
Leeds want to respect the agreement with Chelsea – still waiting for player and Deco to accept. #CFC
Barça, trying until the end. pic.twitter.com/iu8re179qN
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 30, 2022
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