Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal and Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United have been linked with Raphinha, but Barcelona head coach Xavi does not want the winger to leave in the summer transfer window.
Arsenal, Newcastle United and Chelsea all have been linked with Barcelona winger Raphinha.
Earlier this month, Sport reported that Arsenal are among the clubs who are interested in signing former Leeds United winger Raphinha.
Arsenal Sporting Director Edu has been in touch with Deco, Raphinha’s agent, for months now and is trying to get a deal done, according to the report in the Spanish publication.
It was also Sport who claimed this month that Chelsea and Newcastle are ready to open formal talks with Barca immediately over the transfer of Raphinha, described as “extraordinary” by Barcelona head coach Xavi.
However, a report in the Brazilian media has now claimed that Xavi is trying to stop Barcelona from selling the Brazil international winger.
UOL have reported that Barcelona have been considering selling Raphinha and were looking to open talks with interested clubs.
However, Xavi has now got involved and has told his bosses not to offload the 26-year-old, who is rated highly by former Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere.
Raphinha to Arsenal or Newcastle United in summer could still happen
Now, Xavi clearly rates Raphinha, but we believe that a summer exit could still happen.
Barcelona have publicly said that they want to re-sign Lionel Messi.
Now, for that to happen, Barcelona have to get their financial issues sorted, and that means selling some of their players.
Arsenal or Newcastle United could be able to take advantage of this situation and be able to sign Raphinha.
The 26-year-old joined Barcelona from Leeds United in the summer of 2022.
Raphinha has made 22 starts and 10 substitute appearances in La Liga for Barca this season.
The winger has scored seven goals and given seven assists in those games.
Barcelona have already won the La Liga title this season.
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