Reliable journalist Fabrizio Romano has now shared the latest news on Tottenham Hotspur’s pursuit of Leeds winger Raphinha.
The Lowdown: Busy window
Spurs have wasted no time in the transfer market this window, with Lilywhites chief Fabio Paratici having already secured the North London club’s first three signings of the summer.
The first two arrivals at Hotspur Way came in the shape of free transfers, with Inter Milan’s Ivan Perisic and Southampton’s Fraser Forster joining the club upon the expiry of their current contracts.
Paratici’s latest purchase was Brighton star Yves Bissouma, who joined Antonio Conte’s side after the two clubs came to an agreement on a £25m fee plus £10m worth of add-ons.
However, Tottenham are expected to pursue a total of six new signings, with a number of star arrivals still looking likely ahead of next season.
The Latest: Romano’s news
Romano has now shared the latest transfer news regarding Raphinha, who has heavily been linked with a move to La Liga giants Barcelona.
Taking to Twitter in the last 48 hours, the journalist said: “Raphinha situation. Barcelona agreed personal terms with Raphinha, but no agreement on fee with Leeds.
"Arsenal are in direct negotiations with Leeds, interested since March. Both Chelsea & Tottenham have been in contact too.
“Fee could be around 65/75m.”
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The Verdict: Great signing
While we all know about his incredible ability on the ball - BBC's Garth Crooks said he's 'a throwback to the Rivaldos and Ronaldinhos of yesteryear' and 'elegant and delightful' - the 25-year-old's underlying statistics also suggest he has a variety of qualities that would suit Conte’s play-style.
Compared with positional peers across Europe over the past year, the Brazil international ranks in the 90th percentile for progressive passes, as expected, whereas he also surprisingly ranks in the 91st percentile for blocks made (via FB Ref), suggesting he has the tenacity required to fulfil Conte's expectations.
With the manager's direct set-up down the flanks, the Brazilian's athletic qualities would suit Tottenham’s style of football - he even played right-wing-back under Jesse Marsch at times last season.
We feel this would be an excellent move if Conte can convince the tricky winger to choose N17 over their London counterparts.
In other news: Paul Robinson urges Spurs to sign another striker...