Chelsea are reportedly in a “strong” position to sign Barcelona’s Raphinha this summer as both the player and the club are at a standstill over contract talks. The Brazilian international, who is having the best season of his career with 30 goals and 23 assists in 49 games, could be tempted back to the Premier League. His hefty £206k-per-week salary and Barcelona’s financial issues may pave the way for Chelsea to strike a deal, although Arsenal and Liverpool are also interested.
Chelsea’s transfer plans for the summer include strengthening the squad with a winger, and Raphinha could be the perfect fit. The club, under Enzo Maresca’s guidance, is aiming to bolster its attacking options, especially after a dip in form. A versatile forward, Raphinha can play across the attack and would provide a major upgrade for Chelsea’s forward line. However, any deal will depend on the player’s contract situation and the club’s financial maneuvering.
Barcelona’s inability to reach an agreement on Raphinha’s wage demands, coupled with their financial troubles, could give Chelsea the opportunity to pounce. Raphinha’s high energy and positive attitude have earned him praise from Barcelona manager Hansi Flick, who described him as a key player in both defense and attack.
Hansi Flick on Raphinha: “He’s unbelievable because he’s always 100% very focused and gives us a lot of strength in the defense, but also in the offense. He’s always the player who starts the dynamic to press, but also when we have space, he starts in the right moment in these spaces, and it helps us a lot. He also always smiles; this is what I like the most, he’s always positive, and it’s important for him to be positive, this is the big thing – then you have confidence to give 100% on the pitch.”
