Premier League giants, Liverpool, Arsenal, and Manchester City, are all interested in signing Barcelona winger Raphinha in the January transfer window.
Former Leeds United winger Raphinha has been in impressive form since joining Barcelona in the summer of 2022. The Brazilian forward has dazzled onlookers with his burst of pace, creativity, ability to withstand pressure, and ruthless finishing.
The 28-year-old delivered impressive performances under Xavi, scoring 20 goals and providing 25 assists in 87 appearances across competitions. His goals and assists proved crucial as the Catalonians won the La Liga title in the 2022-23 season.
Xavi’s successor, Hansi Flick, has elevated Raphinha’s game to a whole new level in the last few months, turning him into one of the most effective forwards in Europe. Under his tutelage, Raphinha has scored 17 goals and provided 10 assists in just 24 games across competitions.
Premier League Clubs in the Running for Barcelona Ace Raphinha
Unsurprisingly, Raphinha’s spellbinding performances have made him a person of interest in Europe, with Spanish outlet Fichajes.net reporting that three top Premier League clubs are interested in attaining his services.
According to the aforementioned outlet, Arsenal have formally registered their interest in signing Raphinha in the January transfer window. The Gunners are reportedly looking for an experienced forward who can bolster their bid for the Premier League title.
Liverpool and Manchester City are also attentive to Raphinha’s situation. However, they have not officially lodged their interest in the ex-Premier League star.
Barcelona coach Flick sees Raphinha as an integral part of his squad and does not want to lose him. However, Barcelona’s tumultuous financial state could facilitate the forward’s departure.
The Catalans could not only make a handsome fee by signing Raphinha in January but also significantly lighten their wage bill. It will allow them to register Dani Olmo once and for all, nullifying the risk of losing the Spaniard for free when the transfer window opens in January. Olmo is crucial to Flick’s plans and seemingly sits above Raphinha in the pecking order.
Raphinha sees his Barcelona contract expire on June 30, 2027. As per sources close to the club, they would not entertain sub-€80 million (£66.1 million) offers for the forward.
