September 10, (THEWILL) – Raphinha has admitted that he was set on joining Barcelona this summer, claiming that no other offer could have come close to his “dream” move.
For much of 2022, it was anticipated that the winger would join Barça from Leeds United, with the Blaugrana planning a bargain deal in the event that the Whites were demoted from the Premier League.
Raphinha scored the game-winning goal in Leeds’ crucial 2-1 victory at Brentford on the final day of the 2021/22 season, allowing them to survive, and as a result, the transfer fee was increased.
Despite a competing €65 million offer from Chelsea and interest from other London clubs, Arsenal and Tottenham, Barcelona was always certain that Raphinha would be theirs. Fortunately, the Brazilian international claimed that joining Barcelona was his only priority.
Raphinha said when asked if he declined a deal from Chelsea: “Yes, because my dream was to wear the Barcelona shirt, which is a club that I have followed since I was very young. Since Ronaldinho arrived. With him I began to understand a little more the history of the club. I wanted to be a part of this. So that dream, those desires were stronger than any other.”
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
