Key Highlights :
FC Barcelona have been linked with a return of Lionel Messi to the Camp Nou, but the Spanish giants may need to sell one of their star performers in order to finance the deal. Reports suggest that Brazil international Raphinha could be offloaded to help improve the club's financial situation. LaLiga have reportedly insisted that Barcelona trim their wage bill or raise around €200million player sales in order to register new players next season, and Raphinha could be the one to make way.
Raphinha joined Barcelona from Rennes before the start of the season, and the 26-year-old has registered nine goals and 10 assists across all competition this season. Despite his impressive performances, the Brazilian attacker could be offloaded to help fund Messi's return. Premier League trio Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United have reportedly maintained interest in Raphinha after missing out on his services last year.
Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has seemingly given his full support to Raphinha amid the transfer speculation. "He’s a criticised player but he does a lot and we value him a lot,’ Xavi said, as per Metro. "We will always support Raphinha – he’s the future of Barcelona."
The decision to sell Raphinha could be a difficult one for Barcelona, as the Brazilian attacker has been an impressive performer since joining the club. However, if the Spanish giants want to re-sign Messi, they may have to offload one of their star players. It remains to be seen if Barcelona will indeed sell Raphinha, but it could be a necessary move if they are to fund Messi's return.