Barcelona have signed Brazil ahead Raphinha from Leeds United in a deal value as much as £55m.
The 25-year-old Brazilian ahead was unveiled to followers on the Catalan membership’s coaching floor on Friday.
Raphinha, who joined Leeds from French aspect Rennes for £17m in 2020, made 65 Premier League appearances for the Yorkshire membership, scoring 17 targets and offering 12 assists.
“It’s a dream come true since I was a kid,” Raphinha advised Barca TV.
“I’m going to give my best.”
Leeds United paid tribute to Raphinha in a membership assertion confirming his departure: “We would like to place on record our sincere gratitude to Raphinha for his effort and contribution whilst at the football club.
“He confirmed unquestionable dedication and professionalism till the very finish of his time at Elland Road and his celebrations on the Brentford Community Stadium will dwell lengthy within the reminiscence.”
Raphinha scored a penalty for Leeds in a 2-1 victory at Brentford on the final day of the 2021/22 season that secured their place in the Premier League.
Leeds and Barcelona reached an settlement in precept on Wednesday, with the initial fee, reported to be £50m, rising to a potential £55m with add-ons. Contract details are yet to be confirmed but the Brazilian forward is expected to sign for five years.
Raphinha had appeared set for a move to Chelsea until Barcelona expressed interest.
Chelsea’s Premier League rivals Arsenal and Spurs were also understood to have been keen on the Elland Road attacker but his preferred choice has always been to switch to La Liga.
He made his full senior debut for Brazil in October and has since earned nine caps and scored three goals for the national side.
Raphinha is the second major player to depart Leeds this summer following Kalvin Phillips’ £45m transfer to Manchester City.
What will Raphinha carry to Barca?
Raphinha’s departure from Leeds will undoubtedly dent their attacking threat.
He was involved in 28% of their league goals during his two seasons in the Premier League, more than any of his team-mates.
His 17 goals were only bettered by Patrick Bamford, with 19, and no other Leeds player could match his 12 assists.
Barcelona manager Xavi will be keen to harness that potential.
Spanish soccer author Andy West mentioned: “Xavi’s love of tempo, width, tactical selection and an urge for food for working explains why he has been pinpointed, alongside together with his apparent inventive qualities, the very fact he’s approaching his peak age and his robust want to affix the membership.
“Tactically, the re-signing of Ousmane Dembele means the Brazilian could often be fielded on the left flank – he is, after all, left-footed despite spending most of his time at Leeds on the right.
“Raphinha’s strong defensive attributes additionally give Xavi the choice of fielding him as a wing-back in his most well-liked 3-4-3 formation.”
Source: www.bbc.co.uk
