Manchester City have reportedly shortlisted Barcelona winger Raphinha as a potential transfer target, but they are expected to face competition for his signature, according to TEAMtalk.
The Brazilian winger has been a consistent starter under Barcelona’s new manager Hansi Flick, contributing 12 goals in 10 La Liga appearances this season. Despite his strong performances, Raphinha has been linked with a move away from the Camp Nou, with several Premier League clubs, including City, showing interest.
Recent reports from Spain suggest that Manchester City could pursue Raphinha if Pep Guardiola is replaced by Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso, who is rumored to be the club’s top target. It has been claimed that Alonso has identified Raphinha as a key signing. However, TEAMtalk sources indicate that City’s interest in Raphinha predates the Alonso rumors, with the club tracking the Brazilian since summer 2023 when they were searching for a replacement for Riyad Mahrez.
City reportedly discussed Raphinha during talks with Barcelona earlier this year about Joao Cancelo, and while the winger remains a player of interest, he is not currently a priority target. Barcelona, however, are said to be reluctantly open to selling Raphinha as they seek to improve their financial situation. TEAMtalk sources claim that Raphinha is one of several “sacrificable” players at the club.
While Manchester City continue to monitor Raphinha, the most concrete interest in the player at present comes from the Saudi Pro League, specifically Al-Nassr. The Saudi club reportedly made an offer for Raphinha in 2023, which he declined, as his preference is to remain in Europe. His agents also approached Aston Villa over the summer, but no deal materialized.
Meanwhile, speculation about Guardiola’s future at Manchester City persists, with his contract set to expire next summer. However, multiple outlets report that Guardiola is likely to sign a new deal with the club, which could be announced before the end of the month.
In addition to eyeing Raphinha, City are also looking to strengthen their midfield, especially with Rodri currently sidelined by injury. Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton is one of the names on their radar as a potential long-term replacement for Rodri. However, City face competition from Manchester United for the 20-year-old, and Palace are unlikely to let him leave in the January window.
Raphinha’s impressive start to the 2024/25 season includes five goals and seven assists in 10 La Liga appearances, as well as a goal and an assist in two Champions League games. In contrast, City’s current wingers, Jeremy Doku and Savinho, have been less productive. Doku has two goals and two assists in 11 appearances, while Savinho, who joined for £30.8 million, has registered three assists but is yet to score.
Statistically, Raphinha outperforms both Doku and Savinho in several key areas. He averages 3.5 shots per 90 minutes, compared to Savinho’s 2.7 and Doku’s 2.0, and also leads in key passes with 4.0 per 90 minutes, ahead of Savinho’s 2.7 and Doku’s 1.8. However, Doku shines in dribbling, averaging 4.9 successful dribbles per 90, far ahead of Raphinha’s 1.5 and Savinho’s 2.7.
As City continue to assess their options, Raphinha’s attacking prowess makes him a valuable asset, though a potential move remains uncertain.
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