Tottenham Hotspur continue to be linked with Barcelona’s Rafinha.
According to a report from Catalan newspaper Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona’s appointment of Ramon Planes as sporting director could aid Tottenham Hotspur’s pursuit of Rafinha.
Rafinha, 25, has come up through the ranks with Barca having joined way back in 2006, and whilst brother Thiago moved on to Bayern Munich, he has stayed with the Catalan giants.
In January, the Brazilian playmaker was loaned out to Inter Milan having struggled to feature under Ernesto Valverde, and he impressed with two goals and three assists in 17 games.
Inter aren’t activating their purchase clause on Rafinha, meaning he is back with Barca, but that may only be temporary as Tottenham seemingly register an interest in his signature.
Mundo Deportivo not only note that Tottenham want to land Rafinha, who is keen to join a Champions League club, but also that a move could be aided by new Barcelona sporting director Ramon Planes.
Planes worked with Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino at Espanyol and even left together in 2012, with the report noting that their friendship could come into play with Tottenham’s interest in Rafinha.
The price involved would be €35million (£31million), but with other clubs – such as West Ham United – also interested, Pochettino may well hope that his relationship with Planes aids Tottenham’s pursuit.
A skilful midfielder with a great left foot and the ability to drive through midfield, Rafinha could be an ideal replacement for Mousa Dembele if the Belgian leaves Tottenham this summer, and Barcelona’s new appointment may just play into Spurs’ hands this summer.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
