- City interested in Barcelona winger
- Viewed as potential Mahrez replacement
- Contacts started between both clubs
WHAT HAPPENED? City have a concrete interest in signing Raphinha this summer, particularly if Mahrez departs the club, per Foot Mercato. The Algeria international has been linked with a move to Al-Ahli, who are ready to bid €20m (£17m/$22m) for the forward, and City are interested in the ex-Leeds United ace to replace him. Reports suggest Mahrez has already agreed personal terms with the Saudi Arabian club.
THE BIGGER PICTURE: Raphinha only moved to Barcelona last summer and has gone on to make 50 appearances for the club, scoring 10 goals and laying on 12 assists. He has a contract until 2027 but Barca are said to be willing to consider any offers, although no fee is attached.
AND WHAT'S MORE: City are overhauling their squad somewhat this summer and have already seen Ilkay Gundogan move to Barca, while Kyle Walker has agreed terms with Bayern Munich over a move.
IN THREE PHOTOS:
![Riyad-Mahrez](https://assets.goal.com/images/v3/blt2baa189502f39550/Riyad-Mahrez.jpeg?format=pjpg&auto=webp&width=3840&quality=60)
![Raphinha Barcelona Betis 2022-23](https://assets.goal.com/images/v3/blt00fd5db118189aa6/Raphinha_Barcelona_Betis_2022-23.jpg?format=pjpg&auto=webp&width=3840&quality=60)
![Manchester City's Spanish manager Pep Guardiola](https://assets.goal.com/images/v3/bltd1334dcbd0ae5fa0/070723_Manchester_City_s_Spanish_manager_Pep_Guardiola_1920.jpg?format=pjpg&auto=webp&width=3840&quality=60)
WHAT NEXT? City may need to sell Mahrez before accelerating any pursuit of a replacement. Raphinha has been included in Barca's squad for a pre-season tour of the United States, and could play in their opening friendly against Juventus on July 22.