Liverpool have ‘the edge’ over Barcelona in Raphinha hunt
Liverpool have “the edge” over Barcelona in the race to sign Leeds United winger Raphinha this summer.
That is according to football finance expert Doctor Dan Plumley, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the 25-year-old’s future at Elland Road.
According to Spanish outlet Sport (6 June), Liverpool and Barcelona are interested in signing Raphinha in this window.
The Reds are said to be open to offering Takumi Minamino as part of the deal.
However, Raphinha would prefer a move to the Nou Camp this summer.
When asked by Football Insider if Barcelona’s financial situation could be a factor in the race, Plumley said: “Barcelona need to be careful.
“They have to be selective with the players that they do want.
“Liverpool have the edge, you would imagine, if they are keen on Raphinha.
“The reason Barcelona are in that situation is to the league restrictions on wages. They have a soft salary cap. That is where the league tell the clubs what they can spend each year on transfers and wages. It is linked to financial indicators around revenue, debt and liabilities. It is also around performance in the previous year.
“The league that set the figure and the clubs have to conform. That is why Barcelona can’t register those players.
“When you compare Barcelona and Liverpool, all things considered Liverpool have the edge from a negotiation point of view. They are in a better position.”
In other news, a source has revealed that Wolves are in pole position to sign Liverpool star ahead of Leeds United and Fulham.
