Chelsea and Newcastle United are reportedly interested in Barcelona winger Raphinha, whose market value has risen to €50 million.
According to a report by Spanish outlet SPORT, Chelsea and Newcastle United have contacted Raphinha. The two Premier League clubs have approached the player’s entourage over a move in the summer transfer window. And he might leave Barcelona at the end of the season.
Raphinha completed a dream move when he joined Barcelona from Leeds United last summer. The Brazilian international had achieved everything at Elland Road and helped the Whites retain their Premier League status. And he snubbed Arsenal and Chelsea to join Barcelona before the ongoing season began.
The 26-year-old has endured a rollercoaster ride this term but has gradually improved in recent weeks. And the player, whose market value has risen to €50 million, has a decent tally of nine goals and nine assists in 37 appearances thus far. But Raphinha’s long-term Barcelona future is uncertain, with his situation alerting Chelsea and Newcastle United.
Chelsea attempted to sign the player last summer and came close to securing his services. But Raphinha’s head turned when Barcelona came calling, leaving the Blues in the lurch. They have since signed several wingers, including Mykhailo Mudryk and Noni Madueke, in January. So it is baffling that Chelsea might look to sign the Barcelona winger in the summer.
But the Premier League bigwigs have contacted Raphinha’s entourage and might launch the offensive this summer. But Chelsea will face stiff competition from Newcastle United in the race to sign the Brazilian winger from Barcelona. And the two clubs might have a decent chance of signing him, with recent reports claiming the Blaugrana might sell him.
Unlike Chelsea, Newcastle United can do with a new winger. While Miguel Almiron has been top-notch this season, Raphinha will be an upgrade on the Paraguayan attacker. And with Newcastle looking to step up to the next level, signing the Barcelona winger will be a good decision.
Meanwhile, Barcelona will likely demand more than Raphinha’s market value of €50 million, as per recent reports. And it will be interesting to see if Chelsea and Newcastle United submit an offer for him in the coming months. For now, the two clubs have contacted the player’s representatives.
