If Everton do buy Rafinha, he will become the next Barcelona player to tread what is becoming a well-worn path.
The inadequacies in the Everton midfield have become common knowledge and may even be a routine for some comics. Barcelona man Rafinha could provide more oomph in the centre of the pitch and add some versatility by playing on the right wing. Everton have been looking for a left-footed right winger to either replace Theo Walcott or at the very least put some pressure on him.
Rafinha has a buy out clause of 14.5 million pounds. He played on loan at Celta Vigo and Barcelona seem ready to let him move and the Toffees have made an approach, according to the Liverpool Echo.
The report says Wolves are also interested. However, history may well give the Royal Blues an edge and if you know it. You will know Everton and Barcelona are becoming regular deal-making partners. Starting with Gerard Deulofeu, now with Watford and continuing with Yerry Mina, Andre Gomes and Lucas Digne, who are still with the Royal Blues. Going back even further, the Toffees sold Gary Lineker.
According to Sport, the Catalan giants already have an offer on the table from a Chinese Super League team. Rafinha, however, would be willing to take a lower salary to play in the Premier League.
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And there are reasons beyond football to attract Rafinha to Merseyside. Both cities are major seaports and have a sense of difference to the rest of their nations. During the Spanish Civil War many men from Liverpool joined International Brigades and joined with Catalans to fight against Francisco Franco and the fascists.
Also, there are other Brazilians like Richarlison, who has fit in well with the fans. Andre Gomes can also help with the language. Rafinha has had a number of injuries over his career including a number of knee ligament issues. Rafinha joined Barcelona at 13, so he is well schooled in how to play flowing football. Despite his injury history, he would be worth Everton taking a chance, especially at this price.
Should Marcel Brands actively pursue Rafinha?