The transfer within the transfer, if there’s a better name for former Leeds United forward, Raphinha’s transfer saga, then that explains it all....CONTINUE READING
The transfer initially started with the Brazilian being linked with Barcelona, with the Catalan club very much interested in the player, but the problem then became his release clause.
With Barcelona’s financial state, it was believed the club couldn’t price the Leeds asset without it bearing some consequences, and could only do so should Leeds United eventually end up relegated.
That didn’t happen though, as Leeds luckily avoided relegation on the final match day of the season to complicate things for Barcelona who were eagerly anticipating the relegation.
Into the transfer window, North London club, Arsenal got in on the forward, actively making moves for the player, with so many photoshopped pictures having the Brazilian in the Red and White kit.
While talks were going on, Todd Boehly’s club, Chelsea came in to hijack the deal from under Arsenal’s noses. They were ready with the money and eager for the player.
Raphinha was unhappy. He didn’t like either of the two. This was a player who turned down the move to Liverpool because he was holding out for the Catalans. He wanted Barcelona.
Raphinha’s agent, Deco; former Chelsea player was actively doing arrangements behind the scenes to ensure his client wore the Barca kit.
And from out of nowhere, the La Liga club peered up, suddenly hijacking the move from Chelsea.
An ordinary transfer move eventually became a love-triangle with beginning, middle and a conclusion. Finally, Barcelona were ready to meet up Leeds United’s fees.
But for the Brazilian, it wasn’t at all about him having anything personal against the clubs that showed interest in him. It wasn’t because he hated the clubs but because he had a dream.
According to the former Leeds player, he always dreamt of playing in the Barca kit, and it was not only a dream of his but that of his family and friends.
In his statements, he remarked:
“For me it’s a dream, not just mine but my family and friends.
“Whoever saw me play, knows that to get here is a dream that I’ve had since I was young. Now what I have to do is give my best and help Barça to return to being the Barça they always were.
“I saw Ronaldinho and Neymar play here. I am one more Brazilian who is arriving at Barça and I hope to achieve what they achieved there,” the 25-year-old added.
