Fabrizio Romano has claimed Newcastle United are among the clubs keen on a move for Leeds United forward Raphinha.
What’s the latest Newcastle United transfer news?
While the signing of a new striker is believed to be a priority for Newcastle this summer, a new right-winger is also thought to be high up on their agenda.
Moussa Diaby of Bayer Leverkusen has also been linked with a move to St James’ Park, although the French international is reportedly cold on the idea of a move to St James’ Park.
Still, Romano has claimed Newcastle are among the teams with an interest in Raphinha, who looks destined to leave Elland Road after a successful season.
What has been said about Newcastle and Raphinha?
Speaking to wettfreunde, Romano said: “I can tell you one thing. Newcastle are among the clubs that could make an effort to sign Raphinha.
“They are very ambitious in the market. Raphinha is one of those players they dream about. They also dreamed of Darwin Nunez.
“But they knew it was going to be impossible once Liverpool jumped on the deal. But it shows Newcastle are trying to find players with such skill.
“A top player who could come to Newcastle. But I think it would be more than difficult for Raphinha as there are other clubs in the race.”
Would Raphinha be a good signing for Newcastle?
It doesn’t exactly take a genius to work that out.
A Brazilian international, the 25-year-old has been tracked by Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham on the back of a season during which he scored 11 goals in the Premier League for a side battling relegation.
No one in the Newcastle squad last season could beat the former Rennes forward for shots (2.5, via WhoScored)) or key passes (1.9) on a per-game basis while his 5.22 progressive passes over the same period rank amongst the leading 90% of wingers playing across Europe’s big five leagues over the past year (via FBREF).
Still, landing him could be difficult.
Indeed, the reported interest from the Premier League alone would be hard to beat off, while Barcelona are thought to be his first choice.
Given most of those clubs will play Champions League football next season, it’s difficult to imagine Newcastle being the front of the queue.