Newcastle United reportedly hold an interest in signing Barcelona winger Raphinha during the summer transfer window.
The Magpies have enjoyed an encouraging 2022-23, reaching the EFL Cup final and becoming a mainstay in the race for Champions League qualification through the Premier League.
However, Eddie Howe's side are currently on a five-match winless streak in the top flight, partly a consequence of their poor form in the final third.
Newcastle are well stocked for players who can play in wide areas with Miguel Almiron, Allan Saint-Maximin, Anthony Gordon and Jacob Murphy all at Howe's disposal.
That said, it is deemed likely that the North East giants will re-enter the transfer market later in 2023, particularly if they earn European football.
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According to El Nacional, Newcastle are prepared to put forward a €50m (£44.5m) offer for Raphinha.
The Brazil international only made the switch from Leeds United to Camp Nou for a reported £55m fee last summer and has since contributed eight goals and nine assists from 36 appearances.
Nevertheless, the 26-year-old has not been a mainstay in Xavi's starting lineup, while it is claimed by Eldesmarque that Barcelona are open to a sale.
The report indicates that Raphinha's frustrated reaction to being substituted towards the end of the first leg of their Europa League playoff tie with Manchester United was not appreciated.
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With that adding to the disappointment over Raphinha's inconsistent displays, it is claimed that club officials are prepared to part ways with the playmaker.
Barcelona were recently told by La Liga president Javier Tebas that they must raise £177m in sales and cutbacks before they can sign any new players in the next transfer window.
Realistically, there are minimal ways to generate a considerable portion of that figure in one go through a sale, seemingly leading to Raphinha becoming an option even when he has over four years left on his contract.
The onus will be on Raphinha to prolong his recent improved form with four goals and two assists being posted in all competitions since the beginning of February.
Darren Plant
