Saudi Arabia ready to splash €100m for Barcelona captain; offering him a $200m four-year deal | OneFootball

Saudi Arabia is once again making headlines in the football world with another attempt to lure top talent with massive financial offers ahead of the summer transfer window.

Following unsuccessful pursuits of high-profile players like Mohamed Salah, who renewed his contract with Liverpool, and Vinicius Jr., who is also set to sign a new contract at Real Madrid, Saudi clubs have now shifted their focus to one of FC Barcelona’s brightest stars.

Saudi Arabia want Raphinha

Indeed, according to Saudi outlet 365Scores, as relayed by SPORT, Barcelona captain Raphinha has caught the attention of Saudi club Al Hilal.

A delegation from the club recently visited Barcelona to explore the possibility of signing him and discuss other potential targets. With the Saudi Pro League title likely heading to Al Ittihad, Al Hilal are preparing a massive summer spending spree and see Raphinha as a target.

Al Hilal have offered Raphinha a staggering four-year contract worth $200 million – $50 million per season until 2029. This extraordinary deal aims to tempt the player away from Barcelona, where he is currently a key figure and chasing major titles.

In addition to the personal terms, Al Hilal have also made an initial approach to FC Barcelona, proposing a €100 million transfer fee to secure Raphinha’s services.

Raphinha is again in demand in Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Barcelona’s sporting department is fully aware of these developments and is determined to keep the Brazilian, though the final decision will rest with the player himself.

Last summer, Raphinha was already approached by Saudi clubs. He admitted that he was close to leaving but was ultimately persuaded to stay by then-coach Hansi Flick.

That decision has paid off, as the Brazilian international has since solidified his status as a global football star.

Currently at the peak of his career and seen as a serious Ballon d’Or contender, Raphinha does not intend to leave Barcelona. He believes he can continue to grow and win major trophies at the Catalan club.

While Barcelona see Raphinha as a vital part of their squad, they also face financial pressures and will need to sell players this summer to balance the books.

A transfer offer in the region of €100 million could greatly assist in resolving their salary cap issues. Nonetheless, the club’s primary objective remains keeping Raphinha and reinforcing the squad around him.