Player Focus: Raphinha playing hard to get

As of the time of filing this, the news making the rounds is that Leed’s Raphinha is seemingly playing hard ball with the numerous clubs seeking to get his signature.

Some weeks ago, it appeared as though he would be donning the blues’ colours. Fast forward to sometimes last week, and one would think he would be a Barca player. But as of today, it’s evident neither looks to be happening as things stands, which begs the question, “what exactly is Raphinha looking to achieve with all of these transfer tantrums”?

Well, from where I’m sitting, I feel Raphinha knows he’s quite a hot cake at the moment, and he’s simply trying to get as much attention he can garner, and perhaps settle with a top choice. Smart, you’d say, but if you ask me, I’d say the Brazilian is pushing his luck too far.

Chelsea made Leeds United a juicy offer, and an agreement was reached. Even the player himself looked set to be heading for Stamford Bridge, until Barcelona popped in and he suddenly looked unsettled.

As things stand, three things will likely happen at the end of the day;

• Raphinha might end up getting signed up by Chelsea, and for the longest time, he would have to proof to the Chelsea faithful how much of love he has for the Club after initially waiting on Barca’s offer.

• The saga revolving around the Brazilian has gone on for far too long, and whichever way it pans out, the outcome might eventually have a negative effect on his performances going forward.

• In worst case scenario, Raphinha might remain at Leeds for another season, and that would in some way batter his confidence levels seeing how much he has pushed for an exit.