Newcastle United have reportedly been in contact with Barcelona to discuss a move for Brazilian forward Raphinha during this summer's transfer window.
There is currently a host of speculation surrounding the 27-year-old's future despite the fact that he was one of his Catalan outfit's most productive players during the 2023-24 campaign.
Raphinha scored 10 goals and registered 13 assists in 37 appearances for Barcelona last season, including six goals and nine assists in 28 outings in Spain's top flight.
The Brazilian has another three years left to run on his contract at Camp Nou, but he could potentially leave this summer to make room for Athletic Bilbao's Nico Williams.
Barcelona are said to be determined to sign Spain star Williams, and a departure for Raphinha would leave Hansi Flick's outfit in a much stronger position from a financial point of view.
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Newcastle 'contact' Barcelona to discuss move
There has been talk of Saudi Arabian interest in Raphinha, but it is believed that a move to the Saudi Pro League does not appeal to the forward at this stage of his career.
Premier League clubs are also being linked with his services, with Tottenham Hotspur said to be keen on the former Leeds United forward.
According to Football Insider, Newcastle have identified Raphinha as a potential signing, with the Magpies making it clear that they are interested in the South American.
However, it is understood that a deal is not close at this stage, with Raphinha content at Barcelona, while the Catalan outfit are not believed to be willing to let him leave for a cut-price fee.
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Would Raphinha be a good signing for Newcastle?
Anthony Gordon is currently being linked with a move away from Newcastle, so Raphinha could potentially be a direct replacement for the England international.
Raphinha previously represented Leeds in the Premier League between 2020 and 2022, scoring 17 goals and registering 12 assists in 67 appearances during his time at Elland Road.
Since arriving at Barcelona, he has managed 20 goals and 25 assists in 87 appearances.
Much will depend on price, and the situation is an evolving one, as Gordon is being heavily linked with a departure, while Barcelona are working on a deal for Williams.
If a deal makes financial sense for both parties, then it could turn out to be an excellent transfer for the two clubs, while Raphinha is believed to be open to a return to English football due to his success at Leeds.
