Reports: Chelsea agree terms with Leeds United for Raphinha
The volatility of the transfer window was on full display earlier today in black and white, as Chelsea reached full agreement with Leeds United for the signing of their talisman, Raphinha.
The news was reported by Fabrizio Romano, who confirmed that the Blues fast-tracked negotiations and were quick to meet the valuation for the Brazilian. The fee would be around £55 million, potentially adding up to £65m with bonuses and add-ons.
The 25-year-old is set to be the first major signing of the Todd Boehly era, after Chelsea signed teenager Eddie Beach from Southampton.
For the Chelsea faithful that was bound to grow impatient with recent developments on the directorial front, this was a sign of what’s to come from Boehly, as he was able to fend off interest from two long standing admirers – Barcelona and Arsenal.
Whilst the Catalan giants simply couldn’t afford Raphinha, Arsenal were too late to make the desirable bid after already having seen one proposal rejected. Chelsea entered the bidding, ensured they provided all the financial details and reached a conclusion with Leeds.
Raphinha, who bagged 11 goals and added three assists to his tally in the Premier League last season, has yet to agree personal terms with Chelsea. This final step should be an easy one according to the Daily Telegraph’s Matt Law, as the prospect of winning trophies and competing in the Champions League does appear to be an enticing offer.
As of now, talks are ongoing between Chelsea, Raphinha and his agent, Deco. It is understood that the hierarchy will aim to get this deal over the line in order to brush aside any potential hijackers.
The Blues have no shortage of talented wingers, but with a few players expected to move on, Raphinha is set to be the newest member to help Chelsea in their quest for consistency up front.
What’s different about his skillset is that unlike those of Christian Pulisic, Timo Werner and Hakim Ziyech, he’s proven in the league against the sturdiest of defenders. The footwork, combined with serious pace and close control has often seen him leave his opponents staring at tufts of grass.
To break the sideways nature of Chelsea play at times, Raphinha’s tenacity to beat players in one versus one situations and ability to create something out of nothing will certainly come in handy.
The West Londoners will add a couple of defensive reinforcements following the departure of Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen. And of course, joining Raphinha, should it be finalised, would be Raheem Sterling as Chelsea prepare a second bid.
A new-look Chelsea, despite all the talent and depth already at their disposal, is slowly being constructed by Thomas Tuchel and Todd Boehly.
-Akarshak Roy
Twitter: @RoyAkarshak
Photo: Rccousins. This file is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International license.