Report shares Barcelona stance on Raphinha after Dembele extension

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The chase for the signature of Raphinha has now experienced another twist, with Mundo Deportivo reporting that Barcelona are planning to prioritise their other pursuits over the Arsenal target after Ousmane Dembele agreed a new contract at Camp Nou.

Raphinha moving to Catalonia has been on the cards for months, it seems. Reports claimed that he had agreed a five-year deal before Leeds’ season was over.

Ultimately, the Whites staying up threw a spanner in the works. Barcelona have certainly not been able to offer an acceptable amount for the Brazilian.

Arsenal have bid for Raphinha, while Chelsea have agreed a £60 million fee with Leeds for the 25-year-old. However, his desire to move to Barca has prevented the Blues from being able to get a deal across the line.

Unfortunately for Raphinha, it seems that no move to Barcelona is on the cards just yet. Mundo Deportivo reports that Dembele has signed a new deal with Xavi’s men.

They remain interested in signing Raphinha also. However, he is now less of a priority. And they plan to pursue other deals first.

Barcelona now prioritising other targets over Raphinha

It will be fascinating to see how the various clubs react to the news. Raphinha will surely be infuriated if Barcelona now pull the plug on their move with almost everything in place.

Leeds will also feel incredibly frustrated. Raphinha is their talisman. And the uncertainty over his future has done them few favours.

Perhaps Raphinha will now welcome the chance to discuss terms with Chelsea. But it would also be interesting to see if Barca’s stance tempts Arsenal back into the race.

He is an ‘unbelievable‘ player. And having come very close to missing out, perhaps the Gunners will be even more determined to secure a deal if they sense they have been given a second chance.