Barcelona will reportedly consider Raphinha’s long-term future in the summer after a mixed start to life at Camp Nou.
The Brazil international, 26, joined the Blaugrana from Leeds United in the past summer transfer window, rejecting the advances of Chelsea. However, despite Barcelona sitting at the top of the table, he is yet to make a massive impression in Spain, contributing just two goals and as many assists in 13 La Liga outings.
According to Spanish outlet SPORT, Barcelona are set to evaluate the performances of Raphinha throughout the second half of the season before taking a call over his future. The club officials have been left unconvinced by the 26-year-old’s displays since his arrival in August, the report adds.
Following his underwhelming start in Barcelona colours, Raphinha’s performances at the World Cup are said to have done him little favour. He featured in each of Brazil’s five games but failed to provide a goal or an assist.
With the Brazilian winger tipped to make a return to the Premier League, here are three potential destinations.
#Chelsea
Raphinha did turn down Chelsea’s offer to join Barcelona in the past summer transfer window—a decision which he may now regret.
With Chelsea now under Graham Potter’s tutelage, Raphinha could be tempted to make the move if the Blues come calling for his services. Potter has seen his Chelsea side struggle for creativity and goals, with the likes of Raheem Sterling, Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang and Christian Pulisic failing to deliver the goods.
As a result, the English tactician is on the lookout for a forward who could provide the cutting edge to Chelsea’s attack, and Raphinha fits the bill perfectly because of his pace, movement and creativity.
#Newcastle United
The influx of cash at Newcastle United following the takeover by the Saudi-led consortium last year has made the Tyneside-based club much more competitive in the market. Add to Newcastle’s rise under Eddie Howe this season and they are becoming an attractive destination for exciting talents across Europe.
Raphinha, to that end, is a realistic option for the Magpies. The Brazil international can add creativity and guile to the Eddie Howe-managed side, whilst bringing competition within the squad. Also, he would provide the manager with more options in the offensive department that are only going to benefit Howe, especially when it comes to team rotation.
#Arsenal
Arsenal are clearly becoming a force under Mikel Arteta and their performances this season are a clear testament. They are top of the Premier League, leading reigning champions Man City by five points ahead of the season’s resumption.
The Gunners clearly could do with adding more depth to their offensive unit, with Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli the club’s only two recognised wide attackers. The best Arsenal can do is to invest in someone who already knows the Premier League well and can make an immediate impact.
Raphinha, in that regard, could be an ideal target for Arteta’s club. The Brazilian had an exciting spell with Leeds United, and his previous experience of English football would make him a risk-free option for Arsenal to consider.
