Barcelona’s clash against Sevilla was Xavi’s final game as the manager of the team. It was, however, also the final game for many players in the dressing room ahead of a summer where very few are deemed untransferable.
Hansi Flick’s arrival will trigger many departures from the club as the German tactician brings a whole new style to the table. Barcelona’s financial situation only compounds the pressure to sell big names.
Raphinha, on that front, has emerged as a prime candidate to leave given his market value and the long list of suitors he attracts.
Raphinha speaks on his future
With the uncertainty around his future at Barcelona growing by the day, Raphinha was quizzed by El Chiringuito via Mundo Deportivo about his plans for next season.
“I have a contract,” he said bluntly, insisting that he did not consider a departure.
The player’s stance on staying at the club, needless to say, is justified. After all, he has grown in prominence this season and established himself as a reliable and consistent option.
Raphinha has provided 22 goal contributions across all competitions for Barcelona this season including six goals and nine assists in La Liga alone. Further, he clocked 1.5 key passes per game and created 11 big chances.
A pawn ready to be traded
Liverpool’s Luis Diaz has emerged as a target for Barcelona in recent days, and the sporting director Deco is said to consider the Colombian star as a ‘dream signing’.
The only hurdle in his arrival, however, is a contract until 2027 with the Merseyside club and a market value of €75 million.
Liverpool will be open to selling Diaz in June with a managerial change set to arrive in Anfield. Barcelona are interested, but see Raphinha’s sale to be essential if the move is to go through.
The Catalans are said to have set a €50 million price tag on the Brazilian, and a departure is thus not ruled out.
Raphinha prioritises Barça but will not be opposed to a return to the Premier League if a worthy offer arrives.
