Barcelona have reportedly ramped up their pursuit of Leeds United winger Raphinha, with negotiations scheduled imminently.
Despite a somewhat difficult season for Leeds in the Premier League this year, Raphinha has contributed 10 goals and three assists in 31 domestic outings, making the 25-year-old the team's top goalscorer.
Wolverhampton Wanderers winger Adama Traore has been on loan at Camp Nou since January, but the Catalan giants are believed to not want to make that temporary move permanent this summer.
The Telegraph reports that Xavi would prefer the club to make a £25m bid for Raphinha, and with a busy summer looking likely in Barcelona, transfer business will aim to be completed as early as possible.
Therefore, talks between the La Liga outfit and Raphinha's representatives are due to take place before the end of this season, despite Jesse Marsh's side having a lot to play for in the Premier League to retain their top-flight status.
The Brazilian arrived at Elland Road in 2020 for £17m, and since then Raphinha has scored 16 times and registered 12 assists in 63 appearances for the club.
Sammy Wynne
