It is hoped the Raphinha to Barcelona transfer saga will finally reach a conclusion in the coming week, as reports state that the Brazilian's agent, Deco, has given the Catalan club a deadline to make the deal happen. Should they feel to meet that demand, Deco and Raphinha will negotiate terms with Chelsea, who have already had a bid accepted by Leeds United.
According to GOAL Brazil, Barcelona have until 'the beginning of next week' to make their deal acceptable to the Whites. Up until this point, the Spanish club - mired in financial trouble which has seen them sell off future TV rights to fund their transfer window - have not only failed to meet the valuation that Leeds have for the player but also the structure of the deal is significantly different to the Blues' offer.
Chelsea's offer is said to be a total fee in excess of £60million, with £50million paid up-front and the rest to be paid in instalments and as add-ons. However, Barcelona are offering less than £50million in total, whilst also wanting to pay the fee in far smaller instalments.
Read more: Pre-season tour absentee highlights Leeds United squad weak spot
The Whites are not prepared to accept such a deal for their star player and seem as if they will continue to hold out until Barcelona at least offer a greater portion of the fee upfront. It appears now that the patience of all parties is beginning to grow thin, not least the player himself, who has made his dream to play for Barcelona clear. However, if the report is to be believed, he is not prepared to wait forever for them if he believes they won't ultimately be able to come up with the required fee.
The player's absence from Leeds' pre-season tour to Australia signifies the hope that a deal will be sorted swiftly from this point. Leeds and Raphinha certainly hope that is the case, as the club want to use the money to help them buy a new striker, whilst the Brazilian would be playing Champions League football next season. Whether that's at his dream club or elsewhere, depends entirely on Barcelona.
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