Barcelona Preparing To Launch An Improved Offer For Leeds United Winger: Good Option For Xavi?

In a recent report, Sport revealed that Barcelona are preparing to launch an improved offer for Leeds United winger Raphinha. It has been claimed that the Catalan giants are eyeing a €50m move for the Brazilian wing wizard this summer.

Raphinha’s Form At Elland Road This Season

Raphinha has experienced a decent season at the West Yorkshire club and has been responsible for performing at a high level on the right side of Leeds’ frontline. The 25-year-old has registered nine goals and three assists in 28 appearances for the Whites this season in various competitions.

The Brazilian wing wizard has performed well to average 2.7 shots, 2.1 key passes, 1.0 crosses and 2.1 dribbles per game in the Premier League. However, he has been sloppy when interchanging possession with his teammates in the opponent’s half, based on his pass completion rate of 68.8% in the English first division (stats via whoscored).

Is Raphinha A Good Option For Barcelona?

Raphinha can use his electric pace and agility to beat his marker out on the flanks. He excels at getting to the byline and loves to cut inside to whip in a few dangerous crosses into the opposition penalty area.

The Brazilian talent also packs a lot of venom with his shots attempts and can chip in by netting and creating his fair share of goals up top. He is primarily a right-winger but can even fill in as a left-sided wide player or act as a forward down the middle if needed.

A winger of Raphinha’s quality could help Barca get back to challenging for the La Liga title in the coming seasons. We can expect the South American sensation to bring some goals and creativity to Xavi‘s attacking department.

At 25, Raphinha is about to enter his prime and would only get better with each season. Plus, he could offer some healthy competition for Ferran Torres, Memphis Depay and Gavi in the race to earn a regular starting spot at the Catalan club. Therefore, Barca would be wise to fund a move to lure the Brazilian attacker to the Nou Camp during the summer transfer period.