Aston Villa withdraw interest in Barcelona winger due to €60 million demands

Despite serious talks of a big departure this summer, Barcelona have made no such move to this point.

With time ticking, however, there is a pressing need to see some sales through so as to facilitate key arrivals. The Catalans are thus working around the clock but have not enjoyed much success yet.

One of the players best placed to leave this summer, especially amidst news of Nico Williams’ arrival, is Raphinha.

Clubs in the Premier League are said to be interested, and Barcelona hope to capitalise on his relatively high market value.

English club drop out of the race

Earlier this week, Premier League club Aston Villa were said to be interested in signing Barcelona’s Brazilian phenom as a replacement for Moussa Diaby. Now, however, the Catalans’ asking price appears to have derailed their pursuit.

As revealed in a recent report via Mundo Deportivo, Aston Villa are unwilling to meet the €60-70 million price tag set by Barcelona for Raphinha and have thus rejected the option.

Aston Villa no longer interested. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

It is claimed that reaching such a figure for the Brazilian international would be beyond their budget and as such, Unai Emery’s side have decided to pull out of the race for the Barça winger.

Not easy for Raphinha

Despite being a regular starter under Xavi Hernandez and performing with decent consistency, Raphinha will not have it easy under Hansi Flick next season.

The German coach is convinced that Barcelona require a new left-winger, and with Nico Williams likely to arrive, the Brazilian could well have no place in the team.

The player is determined to fight for a place and prove his worth to the new manager. However, the club’s economic situation coupled with his uncertain role could well pave the way for a shock departure.