According to reports, Tottenham Hotspur has put forward a £60 million offer for Barcelona winger Raphinha. The Brazilian joined Barcelona just 18 months ago from Leeds United for £55 million and played a crucial role in securing the La Liga title last season.
However, Raphinha has been sidelined with injury for the past month, and his position in the team is now threatened by teenager Lamine Yamal, who plays in the same position. Yamal has impressed as one of Barcelona’s standout players during a challenging period that saw Xavi announce his departure as manager at the end of the season.
For Barcelona, accepting a bid from the Premier League could alleviate some of their financial difficulties, which are currently affecting various aspects of the club’s operations. It’s reported that Spurs’ £60 million bid is being considered by Barcelona as they seek to generate much-needed funds.
This influx of money would be crucial for Barcelona, especially as they aim to convert the loan moves of Joao Cancelo and Joao Felix into permanent deals at the end of the season, meet financial regulations, and cover the club’s day-to-day expenses.
Last summer, Spurs made significant signings, acquiring Brennan Johnson for £47.5 million and securing the permanent transfer of Dejan Kulusevski from Juventus after an 18-month loan spell. As a result, Ange Postecoglou, the manager, has a plethora of options on the right-hand side of the attack.
In addition to these signings, Tottenham boasts a squad with versatile players such as Heung-min Son, Richarlison, and Timo Werner, all capable of operating across the frontline.
The reported bid for Raphinha may come as a surprise to Liverpool, who allegedly have the Brazilian winger on their list of potential replacements for Mohamed Salah, should he depart in the summer. Last summer, Liverpool turned down a £150 million offer for Salah from a Saudi Arabian club. However, with Jurgen Klopp set to leave at the end of the season, Salah’s tenure at Liverpool could be nearing its conclusion.
Salah will soon enter the final year of his contract, and the Saudi Pro League continues to aggressively pursue top-tier talent worldwide. Liverpool has had to contend without Salah recently due to his participation in the Africa Cup of Nations and subsequent injury, prompting the club to consider succession plans given the absence of a natural replacement within the current squad.
Johan Bakayoko is another right-winger reportedly linked with Liverpool, but they face competition from title rivals Manchester City for his signature.