On February 8th, we covered claims from Spain that Chelsea would be willing to make an offer for Barcelona’s Raphinha in the summer.
The Blues’ interest in the winger isn’t new as they tried signing him before he joined the La Liga side from Leeds United in 2022. This was revealed by Barca sporting director Deco, who was then his agent, earlier this year.
Deco also said Chelsea owner Todd Boehly really wanted the 27-year-old. The American and his side could be given another opportunity to sign him in the summer, according to Sport.
The Brazil international has impressed for the Catalan club in recent weeks, including a brace in Barca’s 3-2 win over Paris Saint-Germain in their first Champions League leg,. He also scored a goal in the second leg, but the Blaugrana lost 4-1 and went out.
Raphinha has scored nine goals and registered 10 assists from 32 games this season and his performances have seen several clubs take notice. The Blaugrana are pleased with his form and will only sell him if there’s an ‘irrefutable offer’.
Sport state Barcelona have decided not to sell the South American for less than €80m, after they rejected a €60m bid from an unnamed Premier League side.
Raphinha is ‘desired by’ several English clubs, with Chelsea referenced and Boehly thought to be keen.
Only Chelsea and Manchester United are named in the report, since the two clubs are looking for players who can make a difference. The Brazilian seems to be one of them, due to his experience of playing in the Premier League in the past.
