Chelsea close in on £55m Raphinha deal that won't stop Raheem Sterling move

Chelsea are on the brink of clinching a move for Raphinha after agreeing a £55million deal with Leeds United, and all that is left to agree is personal terms, which shouldn't be a problem

Raphinha is on the brink of joining Chelsea.

The Premier League giants contacted Leeds on Tuesday and were told what it would take to lure the Brazilian international to Elland Road. And Thomas Tuchel's men are prepared to meet the asking price.

Raphinha had been holding out for a move to Barcelona. But the Spanish giants failed to make a move due to their ongoing financial problems - leaving the door open for Chelsea to steal a march on them, as well as Premier League rivals Arsenal.

The 25-year-old has made it clear to Elland Road bosses he wants to join a bigger club that can offer him Champions League football and a better chance of winning trophies. He also knows he can double his wages at Stamford Bridge.

It is understood Chelsea's decision to sign Raphinha will not stop them from attempting to land England and Manchester City ace Raheem Sterling as well.

Raphinha joined Leeds from Rennes in 2020 for £17m and has been a revelation for the Yorkshire club. He was instrumental in helping them avoid relegation from the top flight last season - but remained reluctant to commit himself to a new and improved deal.

Thomas Tuchel will be delighted that Chelsea are on the verge of making their first signing of the summer

Losing one of their most influential stars will be a huge blow to Leeds fans, who saw cult hero Kalvin Phillips join City in a £50m deal last weekend.

Leeds are now poised to have generated more than £100m from sales, but it remains to be seen how much of it will be given to boss Jesse Marsch for him to sign top class replacements.

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