Barcelona are fond of Leeds United winger Raphinha but will struggle to meet the Elland Road club’s expected asking price.
Leeds are bracing for offers for their star player and are preparing the ground by scouting potential replacements with the 25-year-old eager to play for a side competing in the Champions League.
West Ham made inquiries into the Brazilian in January but were told Leeds wanted to keep him to maintain their Premier League status and it would cost more than £60million.
Regardless, Raphinha, who is among Leeds’ lower earners, would like a bigger stage than West Ham can provide as he looks to cement his place in Brazil’s squad for the World Cup in Qatar.
Barcelona, Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich are all following his season closely, while Liverpool have also noticed his progression and Newcastle are said to be interested too.
Although he collided with Marcelo Bielsa for his defensive duties, he is back in shape under Jesse Marsch, still delivering nine goals and three assists in a taxing campaign.
Barca have a good relationship with Raphinha’s agent Deco and it’s clear they have confirmed their admiration for a player who cost Leeds £17million from Rennes in 2020.
They will have some cash to spend this summer, but a lot will depend on who can sell them and what they can raise for the likes of Aston Villa target Philippe Coutinho.
