Sources told ESPN that Leeds United have moved to a pole position to sign Chelsea winger after accepting a fee of more than £ 60m, forcing Barcelona to face a race against time to sign Rafinha.
The 25-year-old is expected to move to Camp Nine, but Barca cannot make a solid bid due to ongoing financial difficulties.
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Sources told ESPN that although Barcelona midfielder Frankie de Jong’s proposed move to Manchester United is nearing completion, the Catalan veteran is unlikely to move quickly to sign Rafinha.
That could change if other terms are allowed – the sale of new television rights or the renewal of Osman Dembele’s contract are two possible variables – but with talks gaining momentum on Tuesday, Chelsea are now leading the race in Brazil.
The Blues are believed to have agreed an initial fee of £ 55m with at least another m 5m add-on – Arsenal have so far shown reluctance to cope.
Gunners head coach Mikel Arteta is also keen to bring Rafinha to the Emirates Stadium, and the club offered £ 30m plus £ 10m in a rejected add-on last week.
It remains to be seen whether Arsenal will try to respond to Chelsea’s offer, but given that Barcelona have not decided to formalize their interest, the Blues have now given Rafinha the confidence to sign.