Raphinha has managed to turn his situation around at Barça. A few months ago, everyone saw him leaving to make way for Nico Williams in the starting eleven. Now, thanks to good performances, the Brazilian star has earned his place. Laporta has no doubts: he is not moving, he's untouchable and Laporta doesn't intend to accept any offer to let him go.
Raphinha has managed to turn his situation around with good performance. In a short time, he's become one of the captains of FC Barcelona. He's both the leader of the team and a leader to the fans. Nobody would forgive the departure of number 11 now and Laporta knows it well. It's impossible for him to leave, no matter what economic proposal comes to his office.
Laporta hasn't always supported the Brazilian striker, but the truth is that he does have a "guardian" in the sporting management: Deco. He was the agent who brought him to Barcelona and has no intention of letting him leave. Last summer he already forbade his sale, despite the strong offer that had arrived from Saudi Arabia when Raphinha was not yet untouchable.
Raphinha is Untransferable; He's Earned It
He arrived in 2022 for 58 million euros and has now doubled his value. At Barça they know that Raphinha could get offers of more than 100 million, being currently one of the best players on the planet, if not the best. However, Laporta is clear that he doesn't intend to let him leave, he's untouchable and wants to renew his contract.
Raphinha has a contract signed with Barcelona until 2027, but the president's intention is to extend it. With three years left on his contract, it's not a priority yet. There are other players ahead of him such as Araújo, Gavi or Pedri. However, he will be the next to go through the offices to negotiate.
Raphinha is Not Moving
Raphinha didn't like the rumors about placing Williams at Barça. Even less did he like the videos he saw of "fans" giving their "11" to the Athletic Club player.
The start of this season leaves no room for doubt: Raphinha is (much) better than Nico Williams. Statistics don't lie: five goals and three assists in eight games compared to just one goal from the Spaniard in seven matches.
Barça has decided to keep the good one, Raphinha, who's also much cheaper. There will be no transfer of Nico Williams and his money will be allocated to another more important transfer: Laporta has already decided.