Toon and Barca in a Raph race
NEWCASTLE plan to rival Barcelona in the battle to land Leeds winger Raphinha this summer.
The Brazilian is expected to leave Elland Road whether the relegation-threatened club avoid the drop or not, and a host of sides are monitoring the situation.
Barcelona have made no secret of their desire to sign him as boss Xavi continues his rebuild.
But, while Newcastle don’t have the cachet of the Catalan club, they can blow the La Liga giants out of the water in terms of the financial package they can offer and are keen to join the battle to land him.
If Leeds are relegated, Raphinha may be available for as little as £25million.
If they stay up, his price tag would be nearer £60m.
Toon boss Eddie Howe is looking to add to his side’s attacking options and Raphinha has proven that he can do a good job in the top flight.
The player has been a massive hit with Leeds supporters since arriving at Elland Road from Rennes in 2020.