Leeds' stance made clear in response to Barcelona's interest in Brazil star Raphinha

Leeds star Raphinha has emerged as a top target for Barcelona as they draw up their summer spending plans.

The Spanish giants want to overhaul their squad and Raphinha is their No 1 objective, especially if they can offload Ousmane Dembele. Barcelona feel they have a trump card in their bid to sign the Brazil star because they have close ties with his agent Deco. The Portuguese is still revered at the Nou Camp from his time as a Barcelona player and speaks to them regularly. Although Barcelona have not made official approach to Leeds, the Elland Road outfit are well aware of their interest.

They understand the appeal of Barcelona to any player, but are adamant they will not sell Raphinha on the cheap. Barcelona are prepared to offer around £33.5million or 40 million euros for Raphinha and believe they can lure him to the Nou Camp.

This sum does not come close to Leeds’ valuation if they did reluctantly decide to cash in on Raphinha and it is understood they would want nearly double that amount. Leeds believe they are in a strong bargaining position and Raphinha has two years left on the deal he signed when he joined for £17million from Rennes in October 2020.

Also the South America’s contract does not contain an escape clause in the Premier League. Leeds have offered Raphinha, 25, improved terms to reflect his status as one of the club’s biggest stars and director of football Victor Orta has had a number of meetings with Deco.

They want to offer him a substantial pay rise to make him one of their best-paid players. Deco is understood to want an escape clause in any new deal and the two sides are at variance over this figure.

These negotiations are at a standstill and Leeds do not expect any movement until they