Transfer News: Chelsea considering a move for Leeds United forward Raphinha
According to Fichajes (h/t Sussex Express), Chelsea are thought to be plotting a swoop for Leeds United star Raphinha in the upcoming summer transfer window.
The 25-year-old has taken the Premier League by storm ever since his arrival at Elland Road in 2020. He has played a massive role in the Peacock’s attacking prowess and Marcelo Bielsa is thought to be a huge fan of the player. The Brazilian has already scored eight goals and provided two assists in 21 matches for the Peacocks in the Premier League this campaign.
That being said, the stats do not do justice to the kind of ability that the Brazilian possesses along with a strong work ethic. His ability to glide past players with ease has caught the eyes of several people in the last couple of seasons. The Blues themselves have spent huge sums of money on recruiting exciting attackers in their squad.
Despite their efforts, some of the big-name signings such as Timo Werner and Romelu Lukaku have struggled to deliver on a consistent basis. Chelsea’s inability to break down sturdy defences has especially been showcased in the PL this season as they have already slipped 16 points behind current leaders Manchester City.
The former Stade Rennais FC player could help revitalise the attacking department at Stamford Bridge. Thomas Tuchel has managed to bring great success ever since coming to the West London club, but it seems as though the German manager would require some more reinforcements if he is to help Chelsea compete at the highest level consistently.
The Blues had a relatively quiet time in the January transfer window despite suffering some injury issues to key players. The club has managed to steer clear of any panic buys at the moment and this could give them a stronger arsenal to go after their priority targets in the summer.
Could Raphinha unlock a new level at Chelsea?
The whites have struggled to put up the points in England’s top flight this season as they languish in the bottom half of the table and are only six points clear of the relegation zone at the moment. Raphinha could get an opportunity to play at the top level with Chelsea and the lure of those glorious European nights could be another temptation of the Brazilian.
At 25, the Brazilian still has a lot to provide and could help bring some venom to the forward line at Stamford Bridge. Getting used to the conditions of the Premier League isn’t an easy task for most players considering the pace and physicality of the game in England.
This has proven to be an even greater obstacle for players who have previously plied their trade in foreign leagues. That being said, Raphinha has already proved himself in England’s top flight and any transition to a top English club should be relatively easier for him.
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Only the future knows whether or not the 25-year-old Brazilian makes his way to the London-based club but a star of his quality could be a great acquisition for any top club. It will be interesting to see whether or not Chelsea are able to add any exciting players in their ranks in the coming summer transfer window.