Raphinha to Leave Barcelona for Saudi Arabia? Al Hilal Interested in Neymar’s NT Colleague

In recent years, the financial situation of Barcelona has improved with the sales of fringe players. However, this has not stopped the ownership from considering bids for some of their first-team players. One of them is winger Raphinha. Neymar Jr’s Al Hilal has registered an interest in the player and could lure the Brazilian away from the Catalan club with a huge bid.

It will be interesting to see whether Raphinha would move to Saudi Arabia. Barcelona, on the other side, will also pay close attention to how the situation develops in January.

Al Hilal declares intentions to sign Raphinha from Barcelona!

In the last summer transfer window, current Saudi league leaders Al Hilal brought in Neymar and Malcolm for huge transfer fees. While Malcolm has impressed, Neymar continues to recover from his long-term injury. Now, as the January transfer window has opened, Spanish media have linked another Brazilian to a move. According to Diario Sport, the Blues Waves want to sign Barca winger Raphinha. The report also claims that the club will not sell him in January. However, they would assess the situation in the next summer transfer window.

The Brazilian winger, after his arrival from Leeds United, took his time to settle during his first season. He scored seven goals and provided seven assists in 36 games last season. However, he has made a much better start this season. He has scored three goals and provided five assists in 18 games. Many, however, feel that he has failed to live up to his $59 million price tag.

Saudi Arabia could be an option where they would make a significant profit on the possible sale. But, Al Hilal will have to beat another club for the signing of the Barcelona winger.

The Blue Waves will face competition from rivals for his signature

Al Hilal is not the only Saudi club showing interest in signing the 27-year-old winger. Their rivals Cristiano Ronaldo led Al Nassr are also closely following the situation of the Brazilian. However, the Knights of Najd will have to sell first to bring in reinforcements. The reason is not their financial situation, but they have exceeded their foreign player’s quota.

Al Nassr midfielder Seko Fofana and goalkeeper David Ospina have already been linked to exits. However, Raphinha is an option on the long list. The Knights of Najd are also linked with moves for Casemiro and Raphael Varane. So, Luis Castro will have to decide whether he will pursue competing with Al Hilal for Raphinha.

WATCH THIS STORY: Cristiano Jr’s Insane Training Schedule

Xavi and Joan Laporta will also contemplate whether they can afford to lose Raphinha. How much should Barcelona demand for Raphinha? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.