Raphinha rejected multiple big-money offers from Saudi Arabia to stay at Barcelona in the summer, sources have told Football Insider.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that the winger was determined to prove that he could be a key player for the Catalan club after his move from Leeds.
Now, the 27-year-old has established himself as one of the most important players in Hansi Flick’s side despite their attempts to sell him in the previous transfer window.
Finance expert Stefan Borson told Football Insider on 30 October that Barcelona still owe the Yorkshire club more than £35million as part of their purchase in 2022.
If the winger had accepted the big offers in the summer, the situation may have become even more complicated.
Football Insider reported in April that Leeds “regret” not including a sell-on clause in his sale as they are at risk of missing out on a huge payday from their former star.
However, sources say Barcelona are now unwilling to entertain talks about his potential exit given his performances so far this season.
Raphinha has scored ten goals and provided nine assists in just 14 games across all competitions so far this season as his side currently sit at the top of La Liga.
Raphinha turns down big-money move away from Barcelona
The Brazilian’s excellent form in front of goal was underlined by his hattrick in the 4-1 Champions League victory against Bayern Munich.
Following that performance, among several other eye-catching displays already this season, he has been heavily linked with a return to England, with Man City, Liverpool and Newcastle all credited with an interest.
However, Barcelona are unwilling to entertain offers for his signature and he remains a crucial part of their race to win silverware.
There had been suggestions that they could cash in on the winger amid financial concerns, but there are a number of players now more likely to leave.
Leeds, meanwhile, have suffered from their own financial issues since their relegation from the Premier League and were forced to sell key players to raise funds.
Archie Gray, Crysencio Summerville and Georginio Rutter were all allowed to leave in the summer, and there is a feeling that a big-money sell-on clause in Raphiniha’s deal could have
Ultimately, though, the winger remained at the Nou Camp – saving Leeds from any regrets.
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