Due to Financial Fair Play regulations, Barcelona might have to sell some of their players in the summer transfer window, Fabrizio Romano reports. This could cast a shadow over Raphinha’s future at the club.
Raphinha has not made a final decision about his next move, but Romano reveals in his exclusive Daily Briefing column for CaughtOffside that the Brazilian winger has attracted interest from teams in the Premier League and the Saudi Pro League.
According to the transfer news expert, this interest is not new, but it could become more relevant if Barca need to reduce their wage bill and avoid FFP sanctions.
It is unclear if this scenario will materialize or if Raphinha can still impress Xavi and earn his place in the team, but it seems reasonable to assume that he is one of the candidates for a possible exit after his disappointing performances at the Nou Camp so far.
Discussing Raphinha’s future, Romano said: “We’ve heard a lot of stories about Raphinha’s future almost ever since he first joined Barcelona from Leeds. Much of it was just normal speculation, but now things could change this summer.
“My information is that Raphinha could be one of the players targeted by clubs in the summer…and at some point, Barca will have to sell some players because of Financial Fair Play. Saudi interest was there already last summer, but from England too.
“Still, no decision has been made on Raphinha just yet, but let’s see what happens as interest is there and some sales will be needed.”
It will be interesting to see who ends up coming in for the 27-year-old if he is available, but a return to England could make sense after he shone during his time at Leeds United.