Newcastle United have ‘already made a first approach’ to Barcelona for Raphinha in May, according to Sport on Monday.
The winger isn’t considered as transferable and is keen to continue at the Camp Nou. Despite this, the Magpies will ‘continue to insist on signing’ him due to the La Liga side’s need to sell players.
Newcastle have positioned themselves and would be willing to pay a fee for the 26-year-old. His sale would help Barca improve their financial situation but the report states ‘the operation is frozen’.
Barcelona have identified a few players to sell to balance their books before June 30th but these players are reluctant to leave. This may have an impact on the Brazilian’s future.
Despite knowing his stance, Sport say Eddie Howe’s side have insisted on the possibility of carrying out a negotiation. They believe the Magpies’ financial offer and the opportunity to play in the Champions League could end up convincing the former Leeds United man.
Deco, who is reportedly set to become the Spanish giants’ new sporting director, is still the player’s agent. He’s insisted on Raphinha’s continuity but has also opened the door for his sale if it’s ‘absolute necessary’.
Newcastle are aware of the situation and having already made contact with Barca last month, they now insist on signing the South American.
This is one which won’t be sorted out quickly either way, and is likely to be dependent on whether Barcelona can get funds from elsewhere instead.
