Because they are eyeing up moves for Nico Williams, Dani Olmo and a new defensive midfielder, Barcelona must make at least one significant sale this summer. One of the prime candidates to be sold would be Raphinha, who’d start the new season as a substitute in the event of Williams’ arrival.
Despite this, Raphinha has no desire to leave Barcelona this summer, and club bosses are already aware of this. As reported by Sport, the Brazilian winger has already accepted the challenge of trying to oust Lamine Yamal or Williams from Hansi Flick’s projected starting line-up.
Raphinha is adamant about staying and doesn't contemplate any other scenario. @joaquimpiera
— barcacentre (@barcacentre) July 24, 2024
Saudi Arabian clubs have shown a strong interest in Raphinha, who could fetch close to €100m. However, he has no intention of heading to the Middle East at this stage of his career, and he also does not contemplate a return to the Premier League either, as he and his family are very settled in Barcelona.
It has been reported recently that Barcelona would accept as little as €50m to sell Raphinha this summer, but it does appear that a big-money sale will have to come from elsewhere. That is a problem for club bosses, but Flick will surely be delighted, given that the 27-year-old will provide excellent depth in attack.
