AS have claimed that while Barcelona are not actively looking to sell Raphinha, they could change their plans in January after Tottenham registered an interest in the attacker.
Several outlets over the last week have reported that Spurs are ready to offer Raphinha a route back to the Premier League in January, 18 months on from his big-money move from Leeds (Football Transfers).
It has even been suggested by some outlets that the Lilywhites could offer some of their players to the Catalan club to sweeten the operation (Sport).
Barcelona are concerned about Raphinha’s form
AS have now shed more light on Barcelona’s stance on Raphinha and Tottenham’s interest in the player, stating that the winger has not been the same since returning after his recent hamstring injury.
The report explains that the Catalan club are concerned about the player’s recent performances, given the amount of money they invested in him. Raphina’s performances are said to be ‘fading in recent weeks’, with the former Leeds man appearing to have lost his confidence.
It is said that Xavi had tried to rectify that behind closed doors but to no avail so far, with the winger not showing too many signs of improvement.
AS state that the Brazilian’s task of getting game time has become more difficult in light of the performances of Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres.
It is revealed that Tottenham are ‘very closely’ following Raphina’s footsteps, having ‘not forgotten his great performances’ at Elland Road.
The publication adds that while the La Liga giants are not planning on selling the player, there could be ‘a sudden change of script’ due to the Blaugrana’s ‘financial needs’.
Spurs Web Opinion
Given Barca’s financial situation, I do not think they would be able to turn down a big offer for Raphinha in January. However, the Catalan club would want to recoup the bulk of the fee they paid to Leeds for the 26-year-old and it remains to be seen if Spurs would be willing to match that.
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