Since Hansi Flick's arrival, Raphinha has reached a level that no one imagined a year ago. The Brazilian winger has gone from being questioned to becoming Barça's most decisive player. He has scored 25 goals this season and has been key in all the big matches.
His speed, defensive effort, and goal-scoring instinct have elevated him to star status. He has managed to earn the trust of the coach and the fans, but his peace of mind could be at risk. Because in the offices of Camp Nou, they are already working on a signing that he doesn't like at all.
Deco Wants Direct Competition in His Position
Although Raphinha shines, Barça knows they need more depth in attack. Flick has requested real alternatives on the wings, especially due to the lack of reliable replacements. Lamine Yamal is indisputable on the right, but Ferran Torres doesn't fully convince, and Ansu Fati is not in the plans.
That's why Deco has made it a priority to sign a left winger who can compete head-to-head with Raphinha. The club wants to have at least two top-level players per position, and that means strengthening the wing with a very specific profile.
Deco's wish list had very ambitious names. Rafael Leao was one of the favorite options for his power and ability to unbalance. Luis Díaz, from Liverpool, was also liked for his dribbling, high pressing, and winning mentality.
But both are completely out of Barça's reach. Milan and Liverpool don't go below 100M, and the blaugrana club is not in a position to pay those figures. Therefore, a much more realistic option has been activated, but it has caused some tension in the locker room.
The Tension with Raphinha Is Evident
Raphinha has been informed of the club's plans and hasn't hidden his discomfort. He believes he has performed at a spectacular level and doesn't need direct competition to keep growing. Moreover, the profile of the new player doesn't convince him at all.
Some say that his entourage has already conveyed his discomfort to the management. Although he is not on the market, a new arrival could cast doubt on his role as an undisputed starter. In a locker room with so much pressure, that can have consequences.
Faced with the impossibility of signing Leao or Díaz, Barça has turned its gaze to Serie A. There plays a fast, unbalancing winger with a lot of goals, who is having his best numbers this season. Moreover, his contractual situation facilitates his departure this summer.
He has experience in major leagues and can play on both wings, something highly valued by Flick. The player is determined to change scenery and is open to landing at Camp Nou.
Figures Are Already in Place: The Transfer Could Be Finalized Soon
The price is another key factor. While other targets exceeded 100M, this new signing could be finalized for about 60. Barça considers it a market opportunity and doesn't want to let it slip away.
If everything goes as planned, the talks will accelerate in the coming weeks. The operation has the approval of Flick and Deco, although not of Raphinha.
The winger who is a step away from Barça is Ademola Lookman, current player of Atalanta. With 17 goals this season, the Nigerian has established himself as one of the sensations of Serie A. His profile fits what the club is looking for, and he is willing to make the leap.
Barça is confident in closing his signing soon. Although Raphinha doesn't like the idea, the sports management is clear that to compete with the greats, they need top-level alternatives.