Xavi not contemplating the sale of Arsenal target, offers above €90m could change stance

Ousmane Dembele’s injury late in January was thought to be the beginning of Barcelona’s undoing. The Catalans had been on a fine run of form until that point, but the Frenchman was crucial to most of their success.

In Dembele’s absence, Raphinha got his moment to grace the stage. Over the past three months, the Brazilian has stepped up time and time again for Barcelona, producing goals and assists at crucial junctures in crucial matches.

Under normal conditions, contemplating the sale of a player who just hit the ground running would be ludicrous. However, Barcelona’s economic situation demands sales in June and the Brazilian was seen as one of the most saleable assets in the squad.

According to a fresh report from Javi Miguel, however, there has been a steep turn in the story. Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez no longer contemplates Raphinha’s sale as a viable option. Only an irrefutable offer, above the €90 million mark, could change the plans.

The Barcelona offices see the Brazilian as one of the world’s top wingers. In view of the acute shortage of quality wingers on the market, they do not see the club’s financial expectation to be high.

Earlier today, reports mentioned that several Premier League clubs including Arsenal and Newcastle United saw the former Leeds man as a target for June.

But it seems to be clear that Xavi and Barcelona do not intend to part ways with the Brazilian. And that stance could only change if offers in excess of €90 million arrive. So, it will be interesting to see how the Premier League sides respond.

Raphinha signed for Barcelona last summer in a deal worth a gross of €65 million. Considering his upward trajectory in recent months, it is only fair that the Blaugranas expect a profit in the event of a sale.

In 28 La Liga appearances this season, the 26-year-old has scored six goals and provided five assists. Further, he averages 1.6 key passes per game and has created a whopping 12 big chances.