Premier League outfit, Newcastle United are highly interested in securing the signature of Barcelona winger Raphinha this summer, ahead of the 2024-25 season. Over the transfer window, the Brazil International had garnered attention from Saudi Pro League clubs and Premier League clubs for a potential transfer from Catalonia.
Raphinha has previously played in the Premier League for Leeds United, making 65 appearances, while scoring 17 goals and 12 assists in two league campaigns in 2020-21 and 2021-22 seasons, respectively. In July 2022, he made a sensational move to Barcelona, however, he has been subject to transfer speculation for a move away from Spain in every transfer window since the move.
Newcastle to reignite the talks for Brazilian despite Blaugrana’s reluctant stance
According to reports, the toons are preparing to initiate a fresh set of dialogues with the La Liga giants amid their financial crisis. The Spanish side are currently exploring possibilities to generate funds through sales, which could force them to bid farewell to some of their top-paid and key players ahead of the 2024-25 season. Therefore, the 27-year-old has emerged as the top target for Eddie Howe and Newcastle United, as they are ready to increase their earlier offer of 40 million euros, that was rejected by Barca earlier this summer.
It is believed that the newly appointed Barca boss Hansi Flick highly rates the Brazil International and wants him to continue at the club. However, due to the ongoing financial crisis, the club might have to offload Raphinha if the right offer arrives – the asking price tag of the winger is 60 million euros for the suitors who want to sign him. The former Leeds United forward endured a challenging start to life in Spain, but eventually managed to regain his form, as he bagged 20 goals and 25 assists in a total of 87 appearances across all competitions last season.