For some time it has seemed like only a matter of time before Raphinha would become a Barcelona player. The Leeds United winger caught the eye of those in power at the Catalan club, as he delivered two seasons worth of excellent form for Leeds in the Premier League.
There was even talk of him being available for a cut-price fee of around £20million if the Whites were relegated. However, the Brazilian played a key part in keeping Jesse Marsch's side in the Premier League and Leeds are now thought to be holding out for a fee of £60million to sell their star attacker.
It has since become clear that Barcelona cannot do a deal for that price, at least not at this time. They have severe financial constraints which have made it impossible to register free transfers in Anders Christensen and Franck Kessie and it seems they would not be able to find the funds for Raphinha unless they sell Frenkie De Jong.
Read more: Liverpool told they can sell Salah and sign 'perfect' replacement Raphinha
In recent days, that has brought other suitors to the fore, with Arsenal said to have an interest in the winger. However, reports in Spanish outlet Sport claim that Raphinha and his agent, Deco, have batted away 'each and every offer' from other clubs as they are so set on Barcelona as the player's next destination.
If that is the case, Raphinha's future is very much tied up in what happens with Manchester United's move for De Jong. If that deal goes ahead, the Catalan giants may be in a position to move for Leeds' star man. However, there are salary cap issues at Camp Nou, meaning that they may need to move more players out before they can make a move for Raphinha, given that they have two other players to register, as well as wanting to make a move for Robert Lewandowski as well.
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