Two big months for Raphinha: Keep Leeds up & sign for Barça

The next two months will be key in Raphinha's career. The Brazilian winger is aware of Barcelona's interest. First, though, he will give everything to keep Leeds United in the Premier League with four games to go.

In Barça's interest, it would be best if Leeds went down, given if they do Raphinha has a 25 million euro release clause, which would make him very affordable.

Raphinha, though, is not considering that option. He is hugely grateful to Leeds for opening the doors to the Premier League for him and helping him into the Brazil squad, where he starts ahead of Rodrygo and Antony.

His first objective is to keep his current club in the Premier League. They are currently two points clear of the drop, although Everton, who occupy the final relegation zone, have a game in hand.

After that, he will then force, if necessary, Leeds to accept an offer from Barça. If they stay up, the price of the deal could be around 40 million euros.

Deco, his agent, is key in the operation and is managing the timing. The former Barça midfielder first put Raphinha's name on the table and after passing all the filters, including Xavi's OK, a strategy has been cooked up.

Burnley and Leeds United both have 34 points to Everton's 32, with Watford and Norwich already down. This weekend, Raphinha has a tough game away at Arsenal, while Burnley host Philippe Coutinho's Aston Villa and Everton, after beating Chelsea, visit Leicester City.