Chelsea’s substantial offer for Premier League player revealed – Blues may need more money

Chelsea failed in their efforts to sign Raphinha in the winter market.

For the past week or so, the winger has been heavily linked to Barcelona. They view him as a replacement for Ousmane Dembélé, if the Frenchman were to leave the club as a free agent this summer.

Wednesday’s edition of Mundo Deportivo states Leeds United value the attacker the same at the same level as what Barca paid [€55m plus €10m in variables] to Manchester City for Ferran Torres.

The newspaper then states the Whites received an ‘important offer’ for the 25-year-old in January.

The proposal was made by the Blues, as Thomas Tuchel’s side €48m for the Brazil international.

Although this proposal was close to their current valuation, the Whites ‘rejected’ it. That’s because they were clear the ex-Rennes man is needed until the end of the season for them to stay in the Premier League. He has nine goals and three assists this season.

The west London club, who ‘tried to get hold’ of Raphinha in January, need to secure a new owner before trying again.

Other clubs aren’t in the same position, which could potentially help them move ahead of Chelsea.

Barcelona are also keen and have the advantage, since the South American wants to make a switch to the Camp Nou.