Saudi Arabian teams continue to make waves in the player transfer market, as evidenced by the fact that they have already acquired a large number of quality players from clubs located all over Europe.
Franck Kessie was previously transacted to Al-Ahli by Barcelona, and the Catalan club had discussions with Al Nassr on the probable transfer of Clement Lenglet; however, the transaction did not go through.
It would appear at this point that the Middle Eastern club, who already count Cristiano Ronaldo among their players, are planning an attack on Barcelona in the hopes of signing Brazilian winger Raphinha, whose current market worth is sixty million euros.
Make connections on behalf of Raphinha, Al Nassr.
Indeed, it was claimed by journalist Gianluigi Longari that Al Nassr are interested in signing Raphinha this summer and have already made the initial contacts to study the possibilities of a move. Al Nassr have already begun their investigation into the likelihood of a move.
Earlier in the summer, rumors circulated that the Brazilian international would be moving to Saudi Arabia. However, such rumors have died down in recent weeks as the transfer deadline approaches.
In spite of this, as we approach the closing stages of the transfer window, it would appear that Al Nassr are plotting an attack on the La Liga champions in order to get the winger who is 26 years old.
On the Saudi government’s radar screens. (Image courtesy of Getty Images and Eric Alonso)
According to the source, the Saudi Arabian giants have made early contacts, but they have not yet made a bid for Raphinha. This is despite the fact that they have shown interest in the player.
Xavi relies heavily on Raphinha.
It is possible that Al Nassr is interested in purchasing Raphinha, but it is quite doubtful that Xavi will allow Barcelona to authorize the sale of his player, particularly at this late stage in the transfer season.
Since the Blaugrana have already parted ways with Ousmane Dembele this summer, they cannot afford to lose Raphinha, who is the undisputed first-choice starter on the right wing. Raphinha is a Brazilian international player.
The player, for his part, has always stated that he wants to stay and prosper at Barca. As a result, the interest from Al Nassr is unlikely to lead to anything major, unless they come up with an offer that is too good to refuse. Barca has always claimed that they want to keep the player.