Al-Hilal launch €100m Raphinha transfer swoop with staggering contract proposal on the table for Barcelona talisman

According to Sport,Saudi Pro League powerhouse Al-Hilal have made an audacious approach to sign Barcelona’s in-form winger Raphinha, with a stunning transfer bid of €100 million (£86m/$114m) and a four-year contract worth $200m (£150m) on the table. Despite previous failed attempts to lure the Barcelona forward, Al-Hilal remain undeterred and have opened talks with Barca to try and lure Raphinha to the Middle East in the next transfer window.

Raphinha has enjoyed a spectacular campaign at the Camp Nou under new manager Hansi Flick, who convinced him to stay last summer amid strong interest from Saudi Arabia. Since then, the 27-year-old has been on a remarkable run of form, contributing 30 goals and 23 assists across 40 competitive appearances. These performances have not only made him a central figure in Barcelona’s setup but also sparked discussions about his candidacy for the 2025 Ballon d’Or.

Despite the massive financial lure, Raphinha has shown little desire to leave Barcelona. He and his family reportedly prefer to remain in Spain, where he is finally fulfilling his potential and aiming to capture major titles. For the Brazilian, leaving now would mean stepping away from a team on the rise and from a league where he has truly begun to flourish.

One factor that could influence future developments is Raphinha’s current contract situation. The winger’s existing deal runs until 2027, but conversations over a renewal have reportedly hit a snag. A key sticking point is the player’s salary. Raphinha’s current wages do not reflect his performances on the pitch, making him one of the most underpaid key players at the club. The Brazilian feels his contribution warrants a revised salary structure, but the club is hesitant to offer long-term commitments with increased pay due to financial constraints. The contrast in expectations has left talks in limbo, allowing Saudi Arabia to swoop in, as they see him as a perfect replacement for departed star Neymar.