Chelsea’s longstanding romance with Leeds United star Raphinha seems to have taken a new twist.

Chelsea were believed to be leading the race for Leeds United star Raphinha, until Barcelona came back into the picture.

The Blues had previously hijacked the deal from Arsenal, as Leeds accepted a £60m bid from Chelsea.

The transfer took a twist when Deco, the agent of the Brazilian, was spotted at Barcelona’s office on Wednesday.

Raphinha had agreed personal terms with Barcelona in March and was keen on moving to the La Liga.

As it stands, Chelsea remain favourites to sign Raphinha with Leeds still waiting on an offer from Barcelona.

According to Standard Sport, with a suitable offer yet to materialise from Barcelona, a decision on Raphinha’s future is expected within 24 hours.

Still nothing agreed today between Barcelona and Leeds for Raphinha. Barca have tried to match Chelsea’s offer but it’s add-on heavy and instalment based. Big few days ahead with Leeds losing patience and Chelsea pushing for an answer from Raphinha.

— Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) July 7, 2022

Chelsea remains the only club to have reached an agreement with Leeds United for Raphinha, and the Brazilian may be left with no other option than to join Chelsea or remain at Elland Road.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta had previously boasted that Raphinha favoured a move to Barcelona.

He said: “Raphinha wants to come at Barça. We have communication and have spoken with Leeds.

“What’s there is that there are other clubs that want Raphinha and are making their proposals.”