Barcelona are closely watching the ongoing transfer negotiations between Aston Villa and Al-Ittihad for winger Moussa Diaby. The potential £60 million deal could significantly impact Barcelona's own transfer plans, particularly concerning the future of their Brazilian star, Raphinha.
If Diaby leaves Villa Park, Aston Villa may turn their attention to Barcelona's Raphinha as a replacement. This possibility has caught the attention of Barcelona's decision-makers, including Deco, as they look to make a big-money sale to fund their own transfer activities.
Barcelona are on the verge of returning to La Liga's 1:1 spending rule, which would allow them to reinvest every euro they earn. This financial flexibility is crucial for the club as they aim to sign high-profile players like Nico Williams and Mikel Merino. However, to facilitate these moves, Barcelona need to offload some players, and Raphinha has emerged as a prime candidate due to his market value.
Despite his impressive performances last season, scoring 10 goals and providing 13 assists in 37 appearances, Raphinha has struggled to fully win over the Barcelona fanbase. His versatility has seen him deployed in various positions by manager Xavi, but with the club's pursuit of Nico Williams and the emergence of young talent Lamine Yamal, Raphinha's future at the Nou Camp appears uncertain.
Aston Villa are reportedly set to receive around £55-60 million from Al-Ittihad for Diaby. This sum aligns with Barcelona's valuation of Raphinha, making a potential transfer feasible. If Villa were to make an offer for the Brazilian winger, Barcelona would likely consider it, especially if it helps balance their financial books and facilitates the signing of Nico Williams.
For Raphinha, a move to Aston Villa would offer a return to the Premier League, where he previously made a significant impact with Leeds United. This opportunity could be appealing to the 27-year-old, who has been at Barcelona for two seasons but has not fully settled in.
Barcelona's financial troubles and strategic ambitions make the potential sale of Raphinha a viable option. For a team grappling with financial constraints, offloading a high-profile player like Raphinha would be the most ideal outcome. The club need to trim their roster, and selling Raphinha could provide the necessary financial relief.
The outcome of the Moussa Diaby transfer talks could set off a chain reaction, potentially leading to Raphinha's exit from Barcelona and a new chapter in his career at Aston Villa. This move would provide Barcelona with the necessary funds to pursue their targets and streamline their squad, while offering Raphinha a return to the Premier League.
All eyes will be on the negotiations between Aston Villa and Al-Ittihad, as well as any potential moves from Barcelona.