Manchester United considering summer move for Barcelona star Raphinha

Manchester United considering summer transfer for Barcelona star Raphinha

Manchester United will undergo a massive rebuild in the summer, especially in the attacking department. Although Anthony Rashford and Marcus Rashford have impressed during their loan spells at Real Betis and Aston Villa, they may not have a future at the club, and Alejandro Ganacho has also been linked with a move elsewhere, leaving a vacant winger in the squad.

According to Football London, Manchester United are keen to sign Barcelona superstar Raphinha, who has emerged as a candidate for this year’s Ballon d’Or and is having the best season of his life in Spain. Ahead of the La Liga clash against Atletico Madrid later on Sunday, the Brazilian has scored 29 goals and provided 16 assists in all competitions this season.

Despite Rafinha’s impressive performances this year, his transfer value has not increased significantly as he is only 28 years old and his contract with Barcelona runs until June 2027. Therefore, the source added that his transfer fee could be just £60m in the summer as Barcelona’s financial problems could force them to sack almost all of their players.

Manchester United transfer unlikely

Raphinha has been one of the best players in the world this season and has fully realised the potential he showed during his time at Leeds United. Regardless of whether he wins the Ballon d’Or this season, it is unlikely that he will leave Barcelona for Manchester United, which would be a step backwards for him in many ways.

Firstly, the Red Devils have fewer chances of playing in the Champions League next year, while their plans are nowhere near as emerging or exciting as Barcelona’s. That being said, the club is also expected to be restricted in the summer, so it remains to be seen whether they can afford a move for Rafinha as other areas of the squad will also need to be restructured.

If the South American leaves Barcelona in the near future, a move to Liverpool would seem the most logical option, with the Reds also reportedly interested in him replacing Mohamed Salah this summer.