In a recent print edition, Sport claimed that Chelsea are back in the race for Barcelona winger Raphinha. It has been mentioned that the Blues are one of the contenders hoping to secure the services of the Brazilian speedster in the summer.
Raphinha’s Impressive Form In Spanish Football This Season
Raphinha is enjoying a decent season at the Catalan club after putting in a series of influential displays as a key member of Xavi’s attack. The 26-year-old has found the back of the net ten times and picked up 11 assists in 45 matches for the Catalan club during this campaign in various competitions.
The Brazilian sensation has proven himself to be a reliable performer in the final third as he is averaging 2.2 shots, 1.6 key passes and 1.2 dribbles per 90 minutes in La Liga. He has even been solid when distributing possession in the opponent’s half, as evidenced by his pass success rate of 79.7% in the Spanish top tier (stats via whoscored).
Raphinha is under contract at the Nou Camp until the summer of 2027. Hence, it won’t be easy for the Blues to recruit him on the cheap in this off-season.
Should Chelsea Go For Raphinha This Summer?
Raphinha can use his pace to get in behind the opponent’s backline and has got the eye to play some decisive passes in the final third. The Brazilian wide player can shoot the ball well and with power from long range and is an excellent dribbler with the ball. He is a technically gifted footballer who has got prior experience of playing in the Premier League during his time at Leeds United.
Hence, Raphinha would be a good choice for the Blues to consider during the summer transfer window. He will no doubt add more goals and pace to Chelsea‘s frontline and might even help them compete for a top-four place in the Premier League next season.
With all things considered, the West London giants would be wise to go in for Raphinha this summer as long as they ship out some of their current crop of attacking talent. At 26, he will only get better in the coming seasons and could prove to be a success story at Stamford Bridge in the long run.
