Manchester City have focused their attention on 26-year-old FC Barcelona winger Raphinha in the event that they part ways with their Algerian ace Riyad Mahrez, according to this Wednesday’s report this from Foot Mercato.
Aside from the Cityzens, the PIF-funded Al-Ahli are also reportedly in the midst of preparing a 4-year contract offer for the treble-winning winger despite Mahrez being tied to the Premier League with his contract set to expire in 2025. It is also understood that City would consider the reported €20m bid expected to come forward from the Saudi Arabian club. The Jeddah-based outfit are also in the running to sign Newcastle Unite’s 26-year-old winger Allan Saint-Maximin.
With the anticipated departure of their 2019 AFCON winner with Algeria, Manchester City are considering the signing of Raphinha a priority as a replacement. If all works out according to plan, this would be the Brazilian’s second spell in the Premier League after two remarkable seasons at Leeds United FC, from 2020 to 2022.
The former Stade Rennais player is reportedly highly rated by Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola and it is the French publication’s understanding that initial talks have already begun between City Sporting director Txiki Begiristain and his Barça counterpart Deco.
A sale would most certainly be welcome for the Camp Nou club considering their ongoing financial struggles. Now it only remains to be seen whether the Brazilian international himself is agreeable to a return to England after his underwhelming debut season in Barcelona.