The two things that stand in the way of Operation Raphinha

Raphinha is one of Barcelona's targets for next season. Xavi Hernandez and the club's management have given the go-ahead for his signing and there has already been contact between all parties.

But the negotiation is, at the moment, at a standstill. The brakes have been hit on the progress of the operation. Leeds do not want to think about the market until they know if they will play in the Premier League next season, and Ousmane Dembele has not yet ruled out continuing at the Camp Nou.

Barcelona began talks with Raphinha months ago. The player, who has a contract with the English club until June 2024, was more than willing to move to join the Blaugrana.

Some sources even suggest that the conditions with him have already been agreed. But the Catalan side have not yet agreed a transfer with Leeds.

The Premier League side want no distractions and do not want their players to focus on challenges other than ensuring they stay in England's top flight.

At the moment, Jesse Marsch's side are just two points above the relegation zone. From the front office, they have put the brakes on any future talk about their squad.

Leeds are well aware of Barcelona's interest, but have no plans to enter into formal talks in the coming days. They're in no rush.

Versatility

But Barcelona have not fully decided on his signing either, as the intention is to sign Raphinha only in the event that Dembele does not renew his contract.

At the Camp Nou, they recognise that the continuity of the Frenchman is more feasible now than it was a month ago, but even so they see it as difficult and that is why they have worked on the option of the Brazilian player.

But Xavi has not yet thrown in the towel with the Frenchman. In any case, some members of the club are defending his signing regardless of what the former Borussia Dortmund player does as a result of his versatility, as he can play on both wings.

Raphinha, 25, has made 32 appearances for Leeds this season, scoring 10 goals and providing three assists.

Barcelona are not the only team to have expressed an interest in the player, who is represented by the former Barcelona man Deco.

West Ham are another of the clubs that are bidding hard for the Brazilian. If Leeds stay in the Premier League, both clubs will have to negotiate a transfer.

In England, there is talk that he is valued at between 40-50 million euros. In the event that they are relegated, his fee is more likely to be around 25 million euros and more affordable for the Catalans.