Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal are reportedly keen on signing 26-year-old Brazilian winger Raphinha from Barcelona.
According to a report by Spanish outlet SPORT, Raphinha is the subject of interest from Al-Hilal. The Brazilian winger faces an uncertain future at FC Barcelona amid the club’s never-ending financial mess. So, a move to the Saudi Pro League might be on the cards heading into the January transfer window.
Raphinha and Barcelona: The story so far
Raphinha has struggled to stamp his authority since joining Barcelona from Leeds United last year. The 26-year-old achieved his dream of representing the Blaugrana, who paid €57 million to secure his services. But he has not been consistent enough to justify the price tag or the hype around him when he arrived at Camp Nou.
The Brazilian international has managed only two goals and three assists in 11 appearances thus far this term. The player has been in and out of the starting lineup at the Catalan club, while an injury has also hampered his campaign. So, it is hardly surprising that Raphinha’s future is uncertain heading into the January transfer window.
Recent reports have suggested that Barcelona will be open to selling the former Leeds United talisman in the January transfer window to raise money for future purchases. The situation has not gone unnoticed, with several clubs, including Al-Hilal, looking to secure Raphinha’s services this winter.
Saudi Pro League calling?
Al-Hilal had also been keen on securing Raphinha’s services in the summer transfer window. But a move did not materialise, as the player did not want to leave Barcelona. In addition, the Blaugrana did not entertain any offers for the Brazilian international either after initially flirting with the idea of a sale.
But with the 26-year-old seeing his stock fall, he might be one of Barcelona’s cash cows next year. So, a move to the Saudi Pro League might be on the cards, with Al-Hilal viewing him as a replacement for the injury-stricken Neymar.
But it is unclear if the former Leeds United attacker is keen on moving to the Saudi Pro League next year. A return to the Premier League might also be an option, with several well-known clubs, including Tottenham, showing interest in him.
