Raphinha has been strongly linked with a return to the Premier League as Barcelona are desperate to bring in funds and after Newcastle United and Arsenal, Manchester United have also shown interest in signing the winger, as per a report in SPORT.
Antony has been a major flop at Man United and there’s a big chance that the club will offload him before deadline day. In such a scenario, Ten Hag will have to bring in a new right-winger because apart from Antony, Amad is the only other recognised right-winger in the squad. Jadon Sancho can also play in that position but the England international’s future at the club is also in doubt.
Barcelona had paid around €58 million to sign Raphinha from Leeds United but as per the report, the Catalans will sell him for around €60 million and this lucrative price tag seems to have caught the attention of Manchester United.
Barca might be desperate to offload Raphinha but the 27-year-old has had a decent time in Spain because, in two years, the winger has made 45 goal contributions in just 87 matches for the club. Last campaign, he had an xG of 7.38 and an xA of 4.99 while creating 41 major chances.
Will Raphinha be willing to join Man United?
Raphinha has made it clear that he is very happy at Camp Nou and has no intentions of leaving but if a good offer comes in, Barcelona won’t be able to resist a sale.
If Man United can find a buyer for Antony they will definitely make a move for Raphinha and if the Premier League giants are ready to meet Barca’s financial demands then Raphinha will have to pack his bags.
However, apart from NUFC and Man United, Al Nassr are desperate to sign the winger and the Saudi club is willing to offer him a package of €20 million net per season.
If the Brazilian has to leave Barcelona then we have a feeling he will go after the money in the Middle East rather than return to the Premier League.
Should Barcelona hold onto him?
In an ideal scenario, Barcelona should not be offloading Raphinha because he is a top player who still has a lot to offer but the lack of funds are currently stopping the club from going after their Tier A targets.
This means the Catalans will have to start selling some high-value players to patch up their problematic areas in the squad. And since Hansi Flick does have the supremely talented Lamine Yamal at his disposal, the new manager can afford to green-light Raphinha’s exit.
