Enzo Maresca's Chelsea is determined to strengthen its attack with a player from FC Barcelona. With a 90 million euro offer on the table, the English club hopes to convince Joan Laporta and Deco to finalize the signing.
The key piece in Hansi Flick's scheme has sparked the interest of the London team, which has already tried to sign him in the past. However, Barça doesn't want to part with one of its most decisive players.
A renewed and ambitious Chelsea
Chelsea is going through a rebuilding phase with Maresca on the bench. The team has regained competitiveness in the Premier League and wants to compete for the Champions League again.
The emergence of Cole Palmer has been great news for the English team. But at Stamford Bridge, they are looking for another striker with experience in LaLiga and the Champions League. The chosen one is a player who was already on their radar before signing for Barça.
The London club wants to strengthen its team with high-level players. Specifically, a winger who can make a difference on the right flank and complement Palmer and Nkunku in the attack.
FC Barcelona's stance
Since his arrival, Raphinha has proven to be a decisive player. His ability to break through and assist has made him an essential piece for Flick.
Additionally, his dedication and commitment on and off the field have been key in the locker room. That's why Deco and Laporta have been adamant: the Brazilian is non-transferable.
Barça's economic improvement also plays an important role. Unlike previous seasons, the club no longer has the urgency to sell key players to balance the books.
Chelsea doesn't give up
Despite the initial rejection, Chelsea continues to insist. With almost unlimited resources, the English are willing to raise the offer for Raphinha to 100 million euros.
Barça, meanwhile, maintains its firm stance. However, the transfer market is unpredictable. If Chelsea continues to press with an even higher offer, the blaugrana board might reconsider the operation.
The Brazilian has proven to be a reliable player for Flick. His experience in Europe and his leadership skills have made him a reference in the locker room.
Additionally, he has managed to combine well with Barça's young talents, like Lamine Yamal and Fermín López, helping to strengthen the team's structure.
His performance in LaLiga and the Champions League has been decisive. In a team looking to regain its dominance in European football, Raphinha has been one of the most outstanding players.
What will happen in the summer?
For now, Barça maintains its refusal, but Chelsea hasn't said its last word. The next transfer window could bring new offers and increase the pressure on Laporta and Deco.
Meanwhile, Raphinha remains focused on Barça. His priority is to keep winning titles and establish himself as one of the best wingers in the world.
However, in football, everything can change quickly. And with Chelsea willing to break the market, next summer will be key to defining the Brazilian's future.