Leeds owner Andrea Radrizzani reveals Raphinha’s move to Chelsea was ‘done’ and how he felt ‘ashamed to go back to Todd Boehly’ after Barcelona hijacked deal
- Leeds owner Andrea Radrizzani reveals all on Raphinha’s move to Barcelona
- The Italian admitted he was ‘ashamed’ after Chelsea missed out on the winger
- Barca beat the Blues to the signing of the Brazilian in a £55million signing
- Chelsea have crossed paths with Barcelona multiple times this summer
Leeds United owner Andrea Radrizzani has lifted the lid on Barcelona’s move for Raphinha.
It was believed that Chelsea were the frontrunners for the winger’s signature, but Barca swooped in at the eleventh hour to complete the £55million signing of the Brazilian international.
And Radrizzani has revealed that Raphinha’s move to Stamford Bridge was all-but-done, before a change of heart saw the winger opt for Barca.
Barcelona completed the £55million signing of Raphinha under the noses of Chelsea
Speaking to The Athletic, Radrizzani said: ‘We couldn’t deal with Barcelona because they weren’t in a position to deal.
‘So we made a deal with Chelsea because the player wanted to go and he was open to listening to offers from Premier League clubs.
‘For me, it was done [Raphinha to Chelsea], and when I have a deal my word is my word.
‘I felt ashamed to go back to Todd Boehly and change my position.’
Leeds United owner Andrea Radrizzani has lifted the lid on the Brazilian’s switch to Catalonia
The Blues have crossed paths with the Catalan giants on numerous occasions this summer. Defender Andreas Christensen joined Barcelona on a free transfer earlier in the window after his deal at Stamford Bridge expired.
Barca also swooped under the noses of Thomas Tuchel’s side to sign Sevilla defender Jules Kounde after the Blues’ long drawn out pursuit of the Frenchman.
And Chelsea were left with eggs on their faces once again after they missed out on the capture of Raphinha from Leeds.
Radrizzani stated that he felt ‘ashamed to go back’ to Chelsea owner Todd Boehly (pictured)
The Whites have seen an influx of players move to Elland Road this summer, as they bid to avoid another relegation battle next summer.
Jesse Marsch’s side have replaced Raphinha with Colombian international Luis Sinisterra from Eridivisie side Feyenoord. However, the winger is an injury doubt heading into the new season.
Leeds host Wolves at Elland Road on Saturday as they kickstart their new campaign.
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