Chelsea and Newcastle United face uphill tasks to sign Raphinha, with Barcelona trusting the 26-year-old Brazilian international.
Fabrizio Romano has told Caught Offside that Barcelona will look to trust Raphinha for the foreseeable future. But the Catalan giants are sweating over Financial Fair Play compliance. Meanwhile, the 26-year-old is a target for Premier League clubs Chelsea and Newcastle United.
Romano said, “There are some reports circulating about Chelsea and Newcastle wanting to sign Raphinha. I’m sure Barcelona are very happy with Raphinha, so, again, let’s see what happens with Financial Fair Play but Barcelona want to trust Raphinha for the present and future and he loves the club.”
Raphinha has endured a topsy-turvy ride since joining Barcelona from Leeds United last summer. The Brazilian international was on cloud nine when he arrived at Spotify Camp Nou ahead of the 2022/23 season. But he did not set the stage alight with his performances in the early months of his stint.
However, Raphinha’s fortunes have turned considerably in the last few weeks. The 26-year-old has a decent tally of nine goals and nine assists in 37 appearances for Barcelona this term. But despite the upturn in form, the player’s long-term Barcelona future is uncertain. And such a situation has captured the attention of Chelsea and Newcastle United.
Chelsea spent heavily in the January transfer window and signed two wide attackers. And while Mykhailo Mudryk and Noni Madueke are yet to stamp their authority, Graham Potter sees a long-term future for them at Stamford Bridge. However, that is not stopping Chelsea from pursuing Raphinha’s signature.
Meanwhile, the 26-year-old might be an upgrade on Miguel Almiron in the coming season. So Newcastle United’s interest in the Barcelona winger is hardly surprising. But with the Blaugrana happy with the player’s progress, a summer move might be a tall order.
Chelsea and Newcastle United have the resources to test Barcelona’s resolve. But Raphinha has been adamant about trying to make his mark for the Catalan outfit. And a summer deal featuring the 26-year-old Brazilian international appears unlikely. But it will be interesting to see if either club can tip the scales in their favour this coming summer.
