Report: Chelsea have now withdrawn their bid to sign ‘delightful’ £50m player until new owner is sorted

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Chelsea have reportedly been forced to back out of the race to land Raphinha’s signature.

According to Sport, the Blues had to withdraw their bid for Leeds United’s dainty attacker because of the sanctions imposed upon Roman Abramovich.

Thomas Tuchel’s employers can’t make any signings until a new owner is fitted at the top of the pile.

This has put a real spanner in the works regarding potential arrivals to Stamford Bridge over the summer.

Wrap-hinha head around that one

One man who might be on the move anyway is Raphinha, who has admirers from inside England’s walls and beyond.

Before Abramovich’s assets were frozen, the European champions were apparently in a good position to sign the Brazilian international, at a cost of around £50m (Mirror).

In fact, Fabrizio Romano claimed Chelsea held pole position for his services before the club came crashing to its knees.

But even if the Blues are out of the picture, it doesn’t mean Raphinha’s future remains at Elland Road.

Barcelona have seemingly stepped up their chase for the winger described as ‘delightful’ by Garth Crooks.

Xavi could lose Ousmane Dembele as a free agent at the end of the term, a player also previously linked to Chelsea.

If Dembele leaves, a space in the Spaniard’s squad may open up for another like-minded forward.

Liverpool are in a similar scenario, as they continue to battle against the idea of letting Mo Salah leave due to uncertainty over his contract renewal.

Defenders are nearly down and out

Fortunately for Tuchel, his front line is still pretty well stocked and probably doesn’t need much tinkering.

It is Chelsea’s defence that might require assessing once the campaign concludes.

Antonio Rudiger, Cesar Azpilicueta and Andreas Christensen could all walk away from South West London once their deals expire in June.

None can be offered an extension until Abramovich’s successor is found, even if the chain of command wanted to meet their demands.

Buckle your seatbelts folks, it’s going to be a bumpy ride.

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