Barcelona ready to offload forward to make room for priority target

According to a report from SPORT, Barcelona are ready to part ways with Raphinha if that allows them to sign Nico Williams from Athletic Club.

It is no secret that the Barcelona management is gearing up for the next season, determined to bolster the squad with top-tier talent to avoid another trophy-less year. 

Xavi, with a keen eye on the team’s requirements, has laid out his priorities to Deco, focusing on reinforcing the midfield, wings, and forward positions.

Deco operates on the assumption that the club can navigate the transfer market within the 1:1 rule and that financial regulations permit all signings to be officially registered. 

With these guidelines in mind, the spotlight falls on Nico, as the prime candidate to enhance the attacking line. But for that to happen, Barcelona need to make sure they are within the regulation and the only way it can happen is by player sales.

Raphinha on thin ice

With Lamine Yamal solidifying his position on the right wing, Raphinha finds himself readjusting to the left flank. 

Barcelona are ready to sell Raphinha. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

Now, his Brazilian flair has brought an array of qualities, but the coaching staff and management feel the team requires a player who can truly unsettle opponents in one-on-one situations.

Enter Nico, whose potential arrival threatens Raphinha’s current role as the left winger. 

Barcelona have offers for Raphinha

Right now, the club is entertaining significant offers for Raphinha, with the most enticing proposal coming from Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia, who are reportedly prepared to shell out a staggering sum, comprising both fixed and variable components.

The potential transfer of Raphinha holds promise for the club’s financial standing, paving the way for the Nico operation while also ensuring compliance with fair-play regulations necessary to register the Athletic forward.

Communicating their intentions to Raphinha, the club has acknowledged his freedom in the decision-making process. However, it is made clear that if he opts to remain with the team, he would likely assume a secondary role.