Saudi Pro League table-toppers Al Hilal are reportedly looking at making a big-money splash on a Barcelona star in order to replace the recently injured Neymar.
Check Out: Surprise Man Utd Star 'Will' Leave Club
Last month, Brazil's all-time top goalscorer suffered a massive setback when he injured his cruciate ligament.
This is not only a blow for the forward, but also for the Saudi top division as it loses one of its biggest stars and consequently his marketability.
According to Sport, however, this is not an issue for the Blue Wave in a financial sense as they are already exploring the possibility of bringing in another star.
The Middle Eastern giants are said to have decided on Barca winger Raphinha to be his compatriot's replacement.
The same report claims that the club tried to sign him during the previous window, but he rebuffed offers both from the Gulf state as well as teams in the Premier League.
His former agent and now-Barca sporting director Deco believed he would make the jump to a world-class level this season, but so far in 2023/24, the winger has not quite done so, with a suspension, an injury and the emergence of Lamine Yamal having all combined in casting doubt over the 26-year-old's prominence in Catalonia.
The reigning LALIGA champions are still in a precarious financial position and are likely willing to sell Raphinha, but the decision will ultimately come down to whether or not the Porto Alegre native is open to trading the Blaugrana for Al Hilal.
Check Out: EURO 2024 Qualifiers' Top 10 Goalscorers
As a consequence of Barca's situation, any offer that comes in for the Brazil international will have to be more than the €58 million (R1.1 billion) they are still paying Leeds United for his services.
You must be SIGNED IN to read and post comments.
WATCH VIDEO:
