Leeds and Barcelona 'strike Raphinha agreement' with winger's transfer options limited

Leeds and Barcelona have struck an agreement for winger Raphinha ahead of a summer switch, according to reports.

The Whites' star has been a leading light at Elland Road since joining from Rennes following their return to the Premier League almost two years ago.

Leeds have struggled this term but Raphinha has been a standout in a team fighting relegation.

His performances have attracted admiring glances from around the Premier League as well as Europe.

Barcelona are in the midst of rebuilding their squad having hired Xavi earlier this season. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Ferran Torres were among those to head to the Nou Camp in January.

Now Sport are reporting that a deal is in place that will see Raphinha sign a five-year deal with the Catalan outfit. The 25-year-old, who has scored 15 times for Leeds since signing for £17m, has reportedly turned down contract offers from Leeds, making it clear his desire to head elsewhere.

The Whites had previously rejected a €35m bid, forcing Barcelona to up their offer.

The LaLiga giants are due to lose Ousmane Dembele this summer on a free with the winger and the club failing to reach an agreement on a new deal. Raphinha is therefore a logical replacement.

The Brazilian had been linked with both Chelsea and Liverpool, having proved himself in England's top flight. Changes at both teams may have shut off both those avenues however. The Blues have been hit with a list of sanctions after Roman Abramovich saw his assets frozen.

They currently cannot sign players in the transfer market unless changes are made to the license under which they are currently operating.

Liverpool meanwhile appeared to suit Raphinha's high-energy style and may well have been able to turn the player's