Newcastle and Arsenal are both interested in signing Barcelona winger Raphinha, according to GiveMeSport.
Sources have told the website that the Magpies and the Gunners could enter a “tug of war” for the Brazilian international with Barca seriously contemplating offloading the player this summer.
Despite scoring 10 goals and contributing 12 assists in 36 appearances, the La Liga club are said to be open to selling Raphinha for the right price, as they look to free up funds for their own purchases.
Both Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams and Manchester City attacking midfielder Bernardo Silva are targets but the pair will cost in excess of £50m each.
It means they are prepared to sanction a move for Raphinha, even though the player himself would prefer to remain at the Camp Nou.
How much would Newcastle have to pay for the player?
GiveMeSport claim that Barcelona have slapped a £68m (€80m) price tag on Raphinha, which is a very steep figure when you consider that the Magpies need to balance the books.
Reports suggest that Eddie Howe’s side will need to raise between £30m and £50m in order to stay within the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability rules.
Despite that, the club are still keen to strengthen their options on the right flank, with there being uncertainty over the future of Miguel Almiron. The Paraguayan is thought to be keen on staying on Tyneside but, if another offer from Saudi Arabia arrives, there would be a temptation to sell him.
Other London clubs have pursued Raphinha
The Brazilian is believed to have turned down both Arsenal and Chelsea before joining Barcelona from Leeds two years ago. While the Blues are not expected to revive their interest, like the Gunners, another London team could get involved.
It is believed that Tottenham may yet join Newcastle and Arsenal in the battle to snap up Raphinha.
