Journalist explains why Spurs are unlikely to win the race for 26-year-old attacker

Pete O’Rourke has said that Tottenham Hotspur are not the favourites to land Raphinha this summer, remarking that the winger is more likely to end up in Saudi Arabia.

Raphinha has had an injury-hit season and has not been a regular in Barcelona’s starting lineup for much of the campaign. Reports over the last couple of months have indicated that he could be on his way out of Camp Nou this summer.

Tottenham are thought to be one of the clubs interested in him, with some Spanish outlets even suggesting over recent weeks that the Lilywhites have already contacted the 27-year-old about a summer move (Relovo).

However, Sport reported last week that the former Leeds star is also the subject of interest from Al-Hilal, who have allegedly ‘knocked on the door’ for the player.

The publication alleged that the Saudi club would even be willing to table a bid worth up to €100m (£86m), including fixed money and variables.

Tottenham are unlikely to sign Raphinha

O’Rourke is convinced that Raphinha will leave Barca this summer but he suggested that the likes of Spurs are not likely to be able to match the salary that he currently earns at the La Liga club.

The journalist told Football Insider: “As part of Barcelona’s financial problems, they’re going to have to cash in on Raphinha this summer to help balance the books.

“For Premier League fans, it’d be great to see Raphinha back in England after his standout time at Leeds. There’s been lots of talk about Tottenham, Arsenal and Chelsea coming in for him.

“But if Saudi Arabian clubs come in with the right offer for him, I can see Barcelona snapping their hands off. He’s also on a big wage at Barcelona, so I think English sides would struggle to match those demands. Saudi Arabia is the more likely move. Tottenham, in particular, are well-stocked with wide players.”

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Tottenham are not going to be able to match offers from Saudi Arabia for Raphinha, especially given that there are cheaper and younger alternatives available.

However, if the Brazilian is not overly keen on moving to the Middle East at this stage of his career, that would potentially bring the Premier League sides back into the race.