Raphinha is in danger. In recent years, there has been much talk about his possible departure to Saudi Arabia, the appeal of which Madrid-Barcelona has learned will intensify in the coming months. He is a player who's very popular there and, after reaching his prime, they are trying to convince him with huge amounts of money.
Barça knows this but remains calm, knowing that they have the upper hand. Raphinha has a contract until 2027 and his release clause reaches 1 billion euros. He could leave for much less, but negotiations would be necessary, with the Catalonian team setting the exit price.
In Saudi Arabia, Al-Hilal have had enough of Neymar and believe that Raphinha has everything to become their next star. They've tried several times over the last few years, always receiving a negative response from the Brazilian player But now the offer will be even higher.
Al-Hilal are considering getting rid of Neymar's contract next summer, coinciding with the end of his contract. In this way, they will save the 100 million euros tax-free that they have agreed for each of the seasons he spends there.
A Lot of Money for Raphinha
If Neymar is earning 100 million at Al-Hilal, the offer that will be made to Raphinha in the coming months is half that: 50 million. Although it may seem little in comparison, the reality is that it would multiply the salary that he is pocketing at Barcelona (6 million) by 8.
To convince Barça to make this move, Al-Hilal is preparing a proposal of 100 million euros for Raphinha to be paid immediately, fully impacting on Fair Play and allowing other moves to be made immediately.
In any case, it isn't at all clear whether this operation will take place. Neither Raphinha wants to leave Barça, nor Barça wants to get rid of Raphinha.
Neymar Will Leave Saudi Arabia
Al-Hilal is clear that Neymar won't continue in Saudi Arabia next season. When his contract ends he will be 33 years old and he believes that, having earned what he's earned, he can still continue in the elite with a lower salary.
Recently, boxing promoter Frank Warren, who had a personal chat with Neymar, publicly stated: "He's coming to England. He's going to come and play for Arsenal."
Al-Hilal's plan is clear: Neymar will leave when his contract ends and the priority is Raphinha.