Chelsea are reportedly getting serious over a move this summer to try sign Leeds United attacker Raphinha.
According to the Daily Mail, the Blues are “serious” about putting together a bid for the 25-year-old Brazilian star.
It is understood the Leeds winger would prefer to join interested club Barcelona, but he wants a transfer out of Elland Road sorted quickly.
The report adds Arsenal fell short of the £65million asking price with their first offer for Raphinha. Tottenham have been in contact about the South American player, too.
Chelsea getting serious over Raphinha
It sounds like Chelsea’s interest in Raphinha could still lead to something a little more serious.
He’s a left-footed magician that’s becoming an important player for his country Brazil, as well as being the talisman in the Leeds line-up for the last two seasons.
The exciting forward scored 11 Premier League goals last campaign to help keep his club in the top flight, but you’d suspect he could achieve much more playing with better players.
Raphinha, who Spurs defender Emerson Royal previously described as a “phenomenon”, could be a real statement signing during this window for whichever club wins the race to sign him.
Brazilian flair
There’s no doubt Leeds’ No.10 has the kind samba magic that has run through Brazilian football for generations.
He looks destined to play at the very highest level with his quality technique, so it makes sense for Leeds to demand £60million-plus for his transfer.
Chelsea have been lucky to have some fantastic Brazilian stars over the years, including the likes of Willian, Ramires and Oscar. Thiago Silva is a current member of the Blues squad that would be a massive help to Raphinha if he ended up moving to Stamford Bridge.
It’s been reported Chelsea owner Todd Boehly has now personally looked into a move for the Leeds star.
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