Xavi wants Raphinha to stay at Barcelona amid PL interest

Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez has told the player’s agent/future director of football Deco and club president Joan Laporta that he wants to keep Raphinha, according to AS.

Xavi had meetings with the pair recently and stated that he is 100% counting on the Brazilian international for next season.

Raphinha only moved to Spain last summer from Leeds United. He rejected interest from Arsenal and Chelsea to sign for Barca in a deal worth around €60 million.

His debut campaign for the Catalans has had its ups and downs.

Sometimes, his one-man army style has looked out of place in Barcelona’s setup. His short passing, a hallmark of Barca’s style, is not great.

On the other hand, he is a productive attacker even when he is not at his best. The 26-year-old has scored seven goals and created 14 big chances (5 assists) in La Liga to help Barcelona win the title.

He has scored ten goals and assisted 12 more in all competitions.

In addition, Raphinha works hard defensively and tracks back relentlessly, trait managers appreciate.

Newcastle United and Chelsea reportedly still want the former Rennes attacker. The Magpies want reinforcement as they prepare for European football next season.

Also, the Blues still need Raphinha. They need attackers that can bring them numbers and have their eyes on the Barca man.

Barcelona considered the sale as they needed money to sort out their financial situation. At the moment, they cannot sign or register new players.

They put an €80 million price tag on Raphinha and waited for suitors to make their moves.

However, Xavi’s decision will make them remove him from the transfer market. He believes they can’t find a player with Raphinha’s quality and profile.

Furthermore, Raphinha is consistently fit and has deputised for the injury-prone Ousmane Dembele.

Barcelona will likely look to sell other attackers like Ansu Fati and Ferran Torres. Other players like Jordi Alba and Franck Kessie could also leave the club.