Raphinha hails ‘dream come true’ as £55m Leeds star is unveiled by Barcelona as Catalans hope for Ronaldinho-style magic
RAPHINHA will achieve a childhood dream after signing for Barcelona and following in the footsteps of Brazilian idols Romario, Ronaldo, Ronaldinho and Neymar.
The Leeds forward, 25, was unveiled at the Catalan club’s training ground on Friday after completing a deal worth up to £55million.
Raphinha, who has signed a contract until June 2027, said: “All my idols played and made history here so it’s a huge honour and I can’t thank Barca enough for giving me the chance to wear this jersey.
“I hope I can achieve half of what my idols accomplished here. It’s a dream come true for me and my family. I’m going to do my best to help this club win (trophies).”
Barca are also keen to tie up a deal for Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski but the clubs have yet to agree a fee.
Barca president Joan Laporta added: “The beautiful game is back to Barcelona and that’s very meaningful to our club.
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“For us, it is very exciting because all of us who have lived through Barca golden times, there has always been a Brazilian.
“Raphinha reminds us of this tradition; and he is here to pick up that baton.
“Xavi wanted to have Raphinha and we have done what we could. At all times, Raphinha has shown his desire to sign for Barca and that has been very important.”
Raphinha joined Leeds from French side Rennes for £17m in 2020.
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He made 65 Premier League appearances for the Yorkshire club, scoring 17 goals – including a penalty on the final day of the season in the 2-1 win at Brentford which secured their Premier League status – and providing 12 assists.
He is the second big-name summer departure from Elland Road after England midfielder Kalvin Phillips joined Manchester City for £45million.
Leeds paid tribute to Raphinha in a club statement.
It read: “We would like to place on record our sincere gratitude to Raphinha for his effort and contribution whilst at the football club.
“He showed unquestionable commitment and professionalism until the very end of his time at Elland Road and his celebrations at the Brentford Community Stadium will live long in the memory.”
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Raphinha had appeared set for a move to Chelsea until Barcelona expressed interest while Arsenal and Tottenham were also understood to be keen on the attacker.
But the nine-cap Brazil star’s preferred choice has always been to switch to La Liga.