Newcastle United consider move for former Leeds United star amid Arsenal and Saudi interest

Newcastle United’s desire to add a winger to their squad during the remainder of the transfer window has reportedly led the Magpies to reignite their interest in Barcelona star Raphinha.

The Brazil international was believed to be on the Magpies radar during his time at Leeds United and there were strong suggestions Newcastle were keen to sign the former Sporting CP and Rennes star prior to his move £55m to the Camp Nou during the summer of 2022. During his first season in Catalonia, Raphinha became a La Liga winner as Xavi’s side saw off Real Madrid and Atletico Madird to became champions for the 27th time in their history and they also claimed the SuperCopa de Espana with a 3-1 win against Real. However, during an injury disrupted by inconsistency and injuries, Raphinha was linked with a move away from Barcelona as the Catalan giants continue to contend with serious financial issues that have hampered their attempts to strengthen their own squad.

Amid speculation suggesting the winger could join Newcastle or a club in the Saudi Arabia Pro League, peaking, now former Barca head coach Xavi said: "Raphinha has been good, not only for his goal, but also with his defensive work. He’s a criticised player, but he does a lot and we value him a lot. We will always support Raphinha — he’s the future of Barcelona."

Talk of a move away from Barca has continued this summer after club legend Xavi was replaced by former Bayern Munich and Germany manager Hansi Flick. Catalan outlet Mundo Deportivo have claimed Newcastle are set to launch ‘a new offensive’ for the 27-times capped Brazil international but warned the Magpies will have a fight on their hands as the former Leeds star ‘does not have the slightest intention to leave’ Barcelona during the summer transfer window. United are said to be looking to make a £58million offer but the Camp Nou hierarchy consider this well below their valuation of the winger. Raphinha has also been told he will be used by Flick during his first season in charge of Barca - but that has not stopped Newcastle pressing on with their interest. Arsenal are also claimed to be keen on the winger but will only submit a maximum bid of around £42million to secure a deal.

The reported move for Raphinha comes as Newcastle look to boost their options in wide areas amid speculation former club record signing Miguel Almiron could leave St James Park this summer. The former Atlanta United star was the subject of offers from Saudi Pro League clubs during the January transfer window but opted against a move to the Gulf State.

However, their interest remains alive and both United and the Paraguay international could well have a big decision to make during the final weeks of the summer transfer window. Newcastle are progressing with a deal for Sheffield United forward William Osula and the Denmark Under-21 international is expected to conclude a move to Tyneside over the next 48 hours. The Magpies have also been linked with the likes of Wolves star Pedro Neto, Nottingham Forest winger Anthony Elanga and Leeds United’s Crysencio Summerville - although the latter of that trio completed a move to Premier League rivals West Ham United over the weekend.