Barcelona won the battle in 2022 for Premier League star Raphinha’s signature. The Leeds player had been absolutely outstanding, even when the club struggled in the world’s toughest league. Several of the big clubs in the Premier League wanted the Brazilian winger, but Barcelona convinced them of Camp Nou and La Liga. Now, a new opportunity for Premier League clubs could open up.
The start at Barcelona was incredibly slow for Raphinha under Xavi. Already after one season, the Brazilian was linked to exit. Then it came off, under Hansi Flick, the 28-year-old has been almost unstoppable with his 30 goals and 23 assists in 49 games.
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In other words, a player Barcelona must and should have with them. Negotiations have been ongoing in recent months, but now there are reports of two areas that could block extensions.
Spanish Sport reports that there is an agreement on a buyout clause of 80 million euros, but there is disagreement about the length of the contract. The current contract runs until 2027. Raphinha is offered two more years, but where the last year is an option for Barcelona. The Brazilian wants a binding contract until 2029.
This sounds like the parties can agree on, but as Raphinha has been one of Barcelona’s top men, the salary expectations are well above what Barcelona have put on the table, reports the Spanish media.
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When we know Barcelona’s history on the financial side, an unsustainable wage level is definitely a deal breaker. The biggest clubs in the Premier League are sure to follow developments closely.
