Despite all their financial troubles, Barcelona continue to be one of the most attractive and sought-after destinations for players across the world. The recent saga of Raphinha's move to the club goes on to show what a dream it remains for a player to don the Catalan colours.
On Wednesday, the Blaugrana officially announced the Brazilian winger's signing after a long-drawn saga. His contract will see him stay at the club until the summer of 2027.
According to reports from Gerard Romero, everything indicates that Raphinha will don the No. 11 for the upcoming season.
Barcelona's kit number 11 has seen some of the Brazilian legends of the club grace it. Rivaldo and Neymar Jr. wove their magic at Barcelona donning the very same number, and the spotlight now shifts to Raphinha.
The most recent holders of the kit were Yusuf Demir and Adama Traore. However, the latter's departure last month opened up the vacancy.
In two seasons for Leeds United, Raphinha scored 17 goals and provided nine assists. Moreover, he was a vital pillar in ensuring that the English side did not suffer relegation last season.
Xavi's admiration for wingers is well known, and one would expect Raphinha to adapt seamlessly to a system that glorifies his position.
However, he will have to fight it out for a starting spot in attack, especially given the strong competition from Ansu Fati, Ferran Torres and Ousmane Dembele, who has signed a two-year deal.
Raphinha will officially sign his contract and be presented as a Barcelona player on Friday at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper.