Leeds United interested in Barça defender; could enter swap deal for Brazilian winger

Barcelona are set to be handed a major boost in their pursuit of Raphinha this summer. The Leeds United superstar is believed to be one of Xavi’s desired targets in the attacking department, with the coach keen on shoring up his options out wide.

Barcelona had attempted to sign Raphinha in the January transfer window, but it didn’t bear any fruit, with the club eventually settling for Ferran Torres and Adama Traore.

The Catalans had even submitted a recent bid of around €35 million, which was swiftly rejected by Leeds United, who appear to be holding out for a fee of €75 million – the value of the attacker’s release clause.

But according to a recent report from Diario Sport, optimism is brewing at the Barça camp surrounding the club’s pursuit of Raphinha. The club believe they may have a key bargaining chip in the form of Oscar Mingueza.

The young defender has been identified as a potential summer target for Leeds United as new coach Jesse Marsch looks to beef up his options in the defensive unit.

Mingueza’s technical prowess, combined with his versatility at the back makes him an appealing target for a club that has struggled with the injury-related absences of key defensive figures such as Liam Cooper, Diego Llorente, Robin Koch and Luke Ayling this term.

Barcelona are essentially hoping to get on the good side of Leeds United by sanctioning Mingueza’s loan deal to Elland Road next season.

The Catalans are aware that the Whites are bracing themselves for a tough summer ahead, especially with the prospect of relegation looming large.

Even if they manage to retain their top-flight status, it could be difficult for the club to keep hold of star players such as Raphinha, paving the way for Barça to snap up the Brazilian, preferably on a cut-price deal.