Barcelona star Raphinha has hired a representative to oversee his ongoing negotiations with the Blaugrana over the terms of a new contract.

This comes as the parties close on an agreement to extend their relationship for the long-term.

Frontman Raphinha is for his part of course fresh off nothing short of a spectacular start to the new campaign. Afforded both the captain’s armband and a new role as Hansi Flick’s attacking spearhead, the Brazilian has responded with 17 direct goal contributions in just eight appearances.

Having evidently already seen enough to be convinced of his place in their plans for the years ahead, Deco and the Camp Nou brass therefore recently opened talks with Raphinha over a new contract.

The basic framework of an agreement has in turn been put in place between the parties. But as alluded to above, the 29-year-old is evidently keen for an outside source to ensure that all is in order before actually putting pen to paper.

As per a report from Goal, citing Diario Sport, after sorting his contract terms without any outside interference across his career to date, Raphinha has hired agent Ali Barat to oversee the final discussions to close his accord with Barcelona.