In a recent tweet, journalist Ben Jacobs revealed that Barcelona have agreed on a fee for Leeds United winger Raphinha this summer. It is understood that the Catalan outfit have come to an agreement over a fee which is close to €75m to bring the Brazilian attacker to the Nou Camp in this off-season.
Can confirm Leeds and Barcelona have finally reached an agreement this evening for Raphinha. My understanding is the €50 million + 10 fee is incorrect (Leeds rejected that offer quite some time ago) and the deal is actually worth close to €75 million.
— Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) July 10, 2022
Raphinha’s Impressive Run Of Form At Elland Road
Raphinha produced a run of fruitful performances for the Whites in the previous campaign. His important offensive contributions helped Leeds United avoid relegation from the Premier League.
The Brazilian sensation banged in 11 goals and secured three assists for the West Yorkshire club last season in all competitions. Raphinha was a consistent performer down the right flank as he averaged 1.5 tackles, 2.5 shots, 1.9 key passes and 1.8 dribbles per game in Premier League football. However, he was a bit untidy when distributing the ball in the opponent’s half based on his pass completion rate of 69.3% in the top tier of English football (stats via whoscored).
Is Raphinha A Good Choice For Barcelona Boss Xavi?
Raphinha is a decent dribbler with the ball at his feet and can make a few dangerous runs in the attacking end of the field. He can strike the ball with power and accuracy from long range and has even got the eye to play a decisive pass inside the opponent’s penalty box.
The Brazilian talent has proved his consistency at Elland Road but has to find a way to improve his link-up play in the opposition half. He mainly operates as a right-sided wide player but can even fill in as a winger on the left flank or play as a forward down the middle if required.
Raphinha has what it takes to become a success story at the Nou Camp. We can expect him to bring more pace, goals and creativity to Xavi’s attack at the Catalan club.
At 25, the South American wing wizard will only get better with each year which makes him a decent choice for Barca to pursue during this summer transfer window.
