Man City 'rival' Barcelona for Raphinha transfer from Leeds and more transfer rumours

Manchester City have been linked with the signing of Leeds United star Raphinha, as Barcelona have had their bid rejected, according to reports.

The 25-year-old has been a breath of fresh air at Elland Road offering front-foot attacking play for Marcelo Bielsa then Jesse Marsch's side. He has two years remaining on his current deal.

Spanish media outlet Sport have reported that Barca have seen their £29m bid for the winger rejected. It has been said their original offer falls considerably less that what the Whites believe him to be worth.

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According to the report, Marsch has told the Catalonian chiefs they must meet the release clause of £62.5m (€75m) in Raphinha's contract. Liverpool have previously been linked with his services but it has been said that Real Madrid and the City are also in the hunt.

The Nou Camp is reportedly his first choice despite the interest from around Europe, given the appeal of playing under Xavi plus the current direction of Barcelona's fortunes. Leeds worryingly close to the drop-zone in the Premier League, and it's been reported that he could depart Elland Road for as little as £20.8m (€25m) if they're relegated.

Meanwhile, Fichajes have reported that Ferran Torres is pushing for Oleksandr Zinchenko to swap the Etihad for Barcelona. They claim that the ex-Blue has approached his new club's hierarchy to pursue the Ukrainian as a transfer option.

Zinchenko has been a fringe player for Pep Guardiola's side in recent seasons following the emergence of Joao Cancelo. With two years remaining on his current term with the Premier League champions, his versatility could be useful for the resurgent Barca.

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