Raphinha’s Outstanding Season at Barcelona and Manchester United’s Transfer Interest
Raphinha has had a remarkable 2024-2025 season with Barcelona, scoring 34 goals and providing 25 assists in 57 appearances across all competitions. His performances have been instrumental in Barcelona’s success, helping the club secure both the La Liga title and the Copa del Rey.
Manchester United’s Ambitious Bid
Amid Raphinha’s stellar form, Manchester United have reportedly made a sensational offer to Barcelona to sign the Brazilian winger. According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, the Red Devils have put forward a €150 million (£127 million) bid for Raphinha, a figure that reportedly surprised even Barcelona’s management, who did not expect such a high proposal for one of their most decisive players.
Despite Barcelona’s reluctance to part with Raphinha, given his key role and impressive stats, the club is facing financial pressures that make considering the offer difficult. The income from the sale would provide much-needed financial balance for Barcelona2.
Raphinha’s Contract Extension with Barcelona
Contrary to the transfer rumors, Raphinha has decided to commit his future to Barcelona by signing a contract extension until June 2028. This new deal adds an extra year to his previous contract, which was due to expire in 2027. The extension reflects his outstanding contributions this season and the club’s desire to retain him.
Barcelona’s sporting director Deco has praised Raphinha’s commitment and performance, highlighting that the player never wanted to leave the club despite speculation to the contrary. Raphinha himself admitted that he had considered leaving after a difficult period in his second season but was convinced to stay by manager Hansi Flick, who gave him a pivotal role in the team’s attack alongside Robert Lewandowski and young talent Lamine Yamal.
Raphinha’s Journey and Impact
Raphinha joined Barcelona from Leeds United in the summer of 2022 for around €60 million. His first two seasons were solid but not spectacular, with 20 goals scored in total. However, the 2024-2025 season has seen him elevate his game dramatically, especially in the UEFA Champions League, where he scored 13 goals and provided 9 assists in 14 matches, setting a new club record for goal contributions in a single European campaign, surpassing even Lionel Messi’s previous record.
Manchester United’s Sporting Situation and Transfer Strategy
The report also notes the unusual claim that Manchester United’s poor sporting situation—finishing 15th in the Premier League last season—might influence Raphinha’s decision, though this is considered an absurd suggestion. United see Raphinha as a player who could make an immediate difference, partly because of his Premier League experience from his time at Leeds United.
United’s transfer activity is focused on strengthening their attack, having already signed Matheus Cunha for £62.5 million and pursuing other forwards like Bryan Mbeumo. The club is eager to make a significant impact in the transfer market, and the Raphinha bid is part of this strategy.