Chelsea are expected to sign off the deal for Raphinha this week, and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has updated the latest on the deal.
Chelsea and Leeds have already agreed terms for Raphinha, and the club is expected to meet with his agent Deco today for personal terms.
According to Romano, there are key hours ahead.
Romano tweeted:
“Raphinha deal, key hours ahead. #Raphinha
▫️ Chelsea will have direct talk with his agent Deco today, waiting for an answer on personal terms;
▫️ Both Barcelona and Arsenal, trying until the end;
▫️ Leeds have full agreement with Chelsea, but also depends on player side.”
Chelsea had gate-crashed Arsenal’s bid to sign Raphinha from Leeds United after agreeing a £60million deal for the Brazilian.
Arsenal were believed to be leading the race for Raphinha and held talks with Leeds United on Tuesday.
However, the Gunners initial offer was rejected by Leeds, before Chelsea came into the race and upped their offer which was immediately accepted by Leeds.
Despite Deco’s visit to Barcelona, Chelsea are still expected to wrap up this deal.
Raphinha had agreed personal terms with Barcelona in March and was keen on moving to the La Liga.
Barcelona do not have the funds to compete in the race for Raphinha – leaving Chelsea in pole position to sign the Brazilian.