Rafinha is very close to joining Real Betis on loan

Rafinha's move to Real Betis appeared to be dead in the water earlier after the two sides couldn't reach an agreement, but in the last few hours the situation has changed and everything suggests a deal will be completed by the end of the week. Betis will pay Barça a loan fee and cover the midfielder's wages for the duration of his stay. There will also be an option to make the move permanent at the end of the season. Rafinha has given the move his blessing and is awaiting an agreement between the two clubs.

The conversations between Barcelona and Betis began last week. Barça initially wanted a permanent deal, asking for an offer in excess of €25m. This is a fee Betis couldn't dream of paying and instead offered the chance to buy part of the player's economic rights. However this wasn't a route that Barcelona were interested in going down. Neither side was willing to give an inch.

And just as it looked as if the deal was dead, Betis offered a loan fee and to cover the player's full wages for the season. Barça will earn over €1m for the initial fee and it'll free up the club from paying his salary for 12 months. The option to buy price is to Barcelona's liking although it isn't obligatory. Rafinha is desperate to play regular football and hopes he can make a difference at Betis. A deal is very close to being finalised now.