Barcelona winger considering summer exit amid Arsenal, Chelsea, and Newcastle interest
Raphinha is reportedly considering leaving Barcelona in the summer transfer window despite interest from Premier League powerhouses like Arsenal, Chelsea, and Newcastle United, according to Joaquim Piera of SPORT.
Raphinha only signed for Barça in the summer of 2022, leaving Leeds United in exchange for a contract worth €58 million plus €7 million in add-ons. Despite a poor start, the 26-year-old has had a strong season in Spain, scoring 10 goals and assisting on 11 more.
Raphinha was given a chance after Ousmane Dembele's injury in January, and the Brazilian international made the most of it. The former Leeds United star, though, is reportedly worried about his playing time at the team next season.
Dembele remains the favoured option for manager Xavi Hernandez on the right flank and with the possibility of Lionel Messi returning to the club increasing, Raphinha’s minutes could get affected.
Since his possible lack of playing time at Barça could also have an effect on his international career, the Brazilian international is evaluating the idea of returning to the Premier League even if he is content and happy at the club he always dreamed of playing for.
Raphinha still has supporters in the Premier League, which is no secret. Along with Arsenal, whose director Edu Gaspar has been calling the player's agency Deco frequently, Chelsea, who aggressively pursued his signature last summer, continue to be interested in the player.
Raphinha is also a target for Newcastle United, who reportedly made a verbal offer of €80 million for the winger.
The Brazilian has been told by each of the three organizations that he will receive a higher salary than the €12 million (gross) he currently receives at Barça.
Barcelona, on the other hand, would only think about parting with the 26-year-old if a bid of between €70 and €80 million came through.
Raphinha hasn't made up his mind on the future, but given the growing interest in him, the club's willingness to sell, and the player's worries about playing time in the coming season, a departure may very well happen this summer.
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