Chelsea look set to beat London rivals Arsenal to the transfer of Leeds star Raphinha.
The Brazilian star has been the subject of several clubs’ interest which include the likes of Barcelona and Tottenham but it was believed that Arsenal were in the driving seat for his signature until Chelsea registered their interest at the eleventh hour. With the guarantee of Champions League football, Raphinha now looks likely to make the switch to west London rather than the red half of north London.
Chelsea’s primary target Ousmane Dembele looks increasingly likely to stay at Barcelona and with frustrations growing over the Frenchman Chelsea’s new owner Todd Boehly has moved quickly for the Brazilian.
It’s believed that the fee will cost Chelsea around £65 million with at least £50 million of that fee being required upfront.
Since arriving at Elland Road from the French side Rennes, Raphinha has become one of the most dynamic players in the Premier League and has been a key reason behind Leeds’ two year spell in the Premier League.
A regular in the Brazil squad, Raphinha will be wanting to cement his place in Brazil’s upcoming World Cup squad and a move to Chelsea will bolster his chances.