Raphinha says that joining Barcelona is 'a dream come true' with the Brazilian's departure from Leeds United set to be confirmed. The deal that will see Raphinha join the La Liga giants isn't yet official, but it's expected that an announcement is imminent.
Barcelona have chased the winger all summer, and will pay Leeds an initial £49 million, which will rise to £57 million with add-ons. The 25-year-old will sign a long-term five-year deal with the club.
Raphinha also had interest from Arsenal and Chelsea, but he says joining Barcelona is a dream move, and hopes to follow in the footsteps of Brazil legends Ronaldinho and Neymar.
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Speaking to BarcaTV, Raphinha said: “This is a dream come true for me, not just for me also my friends and family.
“They’ve seen me playing since I was a kid. They knew this was a dream of mine to come here. All I can do now is give my best and try to help Barca be what it’s always been.
“What I can say about myself is that I’m very excited to win. I like to win, any time I lose it’s very difficult to accept.
“So, you can expect a player who will always be fighting, always try to win, in training sessions as well. I will fight to become a better player.
“For me it’s a tremendous honour. I saw Ronaldinho come here and achieve so much and after that Neymar as well. For me as a Brazilian to come here it’s an honour. I hope to reach the same objectives that those two players achieved.”
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