Newcastle United is reportedly preparing a bid of €80 million (£71/$89m) for Barcelona winger Raphinha, according to sources. The Premier League side was interested in signing the Brazilian player last summer, but he opted to sign for Barcelona instead. However, the Magpies have now reignited their interest and are reportedly ready to pay the hefty transfer fee to acquire his services.
Barcelona is considering selling Raphinha due to the club’s financial struggles. The Catalan club is looking to reduce their salary budget by €200m (£176m/$220m) and generate an additional €100m (£76m/$120m) in transfer fees to meet La Liga’s Financial Fair Play regulations. Their priority, however, is to bring back Lionel Messi from Paris Saint-Germain, which will require significant funds. Follow the La Liga with attractive betting odds from NextBet.
Despite only scoring 10 goals in 45 matches this season, Raphinha has been a crucial player for Barcelona, especially in the absence of Ousmane Dembele. He has been heavily relied upon by Xavi, but his erratic form and outspoken frustrations have not gone down well with the club hierarchy. As a result, Barcelona is open to selling him, and there is interest from several Premier League clubs, given his prior experience in the competition.
In the most recent game against Osasuna, Raphinha was substituted in the 52nd minute after a lackluster performance. He was replaced by Dembele, suggesting that the Frenchman remains Xavi’s preferred choice on the right wing. However, Raphinha will have five remaining La Liga matches to prove his worth to the manager and board and convince them to keep him beyond the current season.
Newcastle’s interest in Raphinha demonstrates their determination to strengthen their squad for next season. If the transfer goes through, it would be a significant coup for the Magpies and a statement of intent from the club’s new ownership. However, it remains to be seen whether Barcelona will be willing to sell the Brazilian winger, and whether he will be interested in returning to the Premier League. Follow NextBet Sports to get all updates from the world of football.
