“It’s a Shame” – Days After Blocking Raphinha’s FC Barcelona Exit, Deco Makes Suprising U-Turn

A string of poor financial decisions have finally caught up to FC Barcelona. The Blaugrana has been struggling to adjust their budget books for the past couple of seasons. While it was reported that the team was willing to part ways with some of their players to balance their finances, their sporting director, Deco, was somewhat against the decision. However, it seems like Deco has finally taken a U-turn on his stance with the ex-Barcelona star giving a green light to Raphinha‘s exit from the club.

The Brazilian winger has been linked with a move away from Camp Nou for a while now. According to reports, multiple Premier League sides are interested in signing the player. However, Barcelona’s high evaluation of the player has stopped any deal from materializing. While Saudi Arabian outfits have also shown internet in the player, Barcelona is yet to provide a green light to a deal.

Deco provides a massive update on Raphinha’s future

Barcelona sporting director Deco might have finally given Raphinha a fresh hope for his future. The Brazilian has struggled to impact the side, following his move to Camp Nou. With the Blaugrana looking to raise their finances in the coming months, it seems like the club feels okay parting ways with the Brazilian. Deco stated, “It’s a shame to lose Raphinha, but we’re getting Pedri back. We’re a little used to it but it’s a shame because he’s an important player for us.”

The Brazilian star joined Barcelona in the summer of 2022, with the Catalan side paying over $60 million for his services. However, the player has failed to impress in his seventy outings for the team finding just 17 goals and 19 assists. A move away from Barcelona could help the player find his old form while helping the Spanish side generate some much-needed capital.

Al Hilal interested in a move from Barcelona star

Saudi Pro League table-toppers Al Hilal has emerged as one of the top contenders for Raphinha’s signatures. The side is looking to bring more quality to their attack in Neymar’s absence and has identified his fellow compatriot as the perfect replacement. However, Raphinha reportedly feels that he still has a lot to offer and would prefer to make a move to a European side.

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While the Premier League has surely emerged as his preferred destination, no English side has launched an official move for the player despite their interest in the player. Barcelona has stamped a massive $80 million price tag on the player which has thrown off any potential suitor. However, Deco’s words could be a positive sign for the player as he’d love to revive his career following a move away from Barcelona.

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