According to reports, Newcastle United are keen on signing former Leeds winger, Raphinha, after the Brazilian’s difficult spell in Barcelona.
Raphinha caught the eye during his time in the Premier League, contributing to 29 goals in 65 matches for Leeds United. Earning him a move to European giants, Barcelona, in the summer of last year – in a huge £50m deal.
However, things have not gone to plan for the Brazilian despite the club sitting at the top of La Liga with an 11 point lead over Real Madrid.
The former Leeds player has scored eight goals in all competitions, scoring three in his last ten appearances for the Catalan side.
Given Barcelona’s recent financial problems, many were expecting more from the man they signed for £50m and has left his La Liga future in doubt.
Raphinha has found some form in 2023 and was key in Barcelona’s most recent victory, as his fifth assist of the season allowed Ferran Torres to score the winner against Atletcio Madrid, in yesterday’s huge battle.
Ferran Torres fires Barcelona in front! 🔵🔴
A big goal for Barça as they look to take another big step towards title glory 🏆 pic.twitter.com/4eerHJIQ5K
— Premier Sports (@PremSportsTV) April 23, 2023
With rumours about Lionel Messi returning to the club, a host of players may need to move elsewhere to fund the move and Raphinha may be one of the selected departures.
Should Barcelona let the Brazilian leave, then one club that have been linked is Eddie Howe’s Newcastle side. The Magpies are on course to qualify for Champions League football and reached a cup final for the first time since 1999.
With the likes of Anthony Gordon and Allan Saint-Maximin being out-of-favour over recent weeks, the addition of Raphinha may be likely.
The Toon travel to Everton in their next league encounter, with hopes of extending the gap between themselves and Spurs in 5th.
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