Manchester City are reportedly willing to lodge a bid of approximately £84million in order to sign Raphinha from Barcelona in the summer, provided two conditions are met.
City have previously held an interest in Raphinha. They were linked with him in 2023, but the Brazilian remained with Barcelona, and has reaped the rewards of that this term.
In 29 games in all competitions, Raphinha has a remarkable 31 goal contributions – 20 goals and 11 assists. Only two players have outscored him in La Liga this season, too.
Amid his top form, City are once again on the hunt, per reports in Spain.
It’s stated they will put a ‘fortune’ into signing Raphinha, with €100million (£84.5m/$104.2m) set aside for the transfer in the summer, rather than now.
Manager Pep Guardiola will endorse the signing provided two conditions are met. Firstly, he needs to know that Barcelona will play ball, as there’d be no point going after Raphinha otherwise.
Secondly, the City boss wants to know that the Brazilian has a desire to return to the Premier League, a division he last played in for Leeds United in in 2021/22.
City coming stronger than Arsenal
It is also believed that Arsenal remain in the hunt, having been linked with Raphinha at various different points.
It’s stated that they could look to lodge a proposal of €80million (£67.5m/$83.3m).
However, that is clearly some way below City’s offer, so the Gunners could struggle to convince Barcelona into the sale.
Arsenal might serve as a more attractive prospect for Raphinha right now, given they are six points ahead of City, but that is immaterial if Barca don’t accept their offer.
Manchester City are reportedly interested in signing Raphinha from Barcelona, with the club willing to lodge a bid of approximately £84million for the Brazilian winger ¹. Raphinha has been in impressive form for Barcelona, with 31 goal contributions in 29 games across all competitions, and his signing would undoubtedly boost City’s attacking options.
Pep Guardiola is said to be pushing for the signing, which would add goals, pace, flair, and creativity to the team . Raphinha’s ability to operate on both flanks and as a central attacking midfielder makes him an attractive prospect for City.
However, City aren’t the only team interested in Raphinha’s services. Arsenal have also been linked with a move for the winger, although their proposed offer of €80million is significantly lower than City’s . Manchester United have also made an offer to sign Raphinha, as part of their plans to invest €230m in three new signings .
It’s worth noting that Raphinha has previously played in the Premier League for Leeds United, so he’s familiar with the English top-flight. His signing would undoubtedly be a significant coup for City, but it remains to be seen whether they can convince Barcelona to part with their prized asset .
