Leeds United manager says Raphinha’s exit could accelerate in the coming days

Amid rising speculations over the transfer situation of Leeds United winger Raphinha, the Whites manager Jesse Marsch has issued an update on the matter.

The 25-year-old winger has sparked a transfer tug-of-war between Barcelona and Chelsea. While the latter have reached an agreement over a transfer fee with Leeds, Barça have agreed personal terms with Raphinha, who has his heart set on a move to Camp Nou.

But Barcelona have been reluctant to raise their offer to meet the proposal of €75 million Chelsea have put forth, leading to frustrations within the Leeds camp, who are pushing to close Raphinha’s exit following the signing of Luis Sinisterra.

Reports on Thursday indicated that things were starting to pick up pace with regard to Barcelona’s pursuit of the Brazilian international. It was claimed that Barcelona are confident of finalising a deal could be finalised in the coming hours.

Now, Leeds United manager Jesse Marsch has dropped a hint that Raphinha might be close to an exit, stating that the winger’s departure could be sealed in the coming days.

Speaking to Beren Cross of Leds Live (h/t Fabrizio Romano), the Whites’ boss said: “Raphinha returned to training today, good attitude. Wouldn’t commit to him being in Australia with things capable of moving quickly in the next few days.”

Leeds are due to embark on a trip to Australia for their pre-season tour and as per Marsch’s update, Raphinha could complete his exit by then.

While reports in Spain continue to claim that a move to Barcelona could be close, English publication Evening Standard mentions that Chelsea remain the favourites to sign Raphinha.

More clarity on the 25-year-old’s next destination could emerge in the next few days as he closes in on an exit from Elland Road.