Barcelona boss Xavi has poured cold water on any transfer speculation linking Raphinha to Newcastle United. The former Leeds United winger secured his dream move to the Nou Camp last summer, following in the footsteps of idol Ronaldinho.
After early struggles at the Spanish side, Raphinha recovered to make 35 appearances in Barca's title winning side, scoring seven goals and registering 7 assists. Despite a relatively strong end to the season, the Brazilian has been repeatedly linked with a move away from the La Liga giants.
Mainly due to their dismal ongoing financial situation. However, Xavi has insisted he wants the Brazilian international to stay at the Nou Camp for next season, although admits it may be out of his control.
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"No, Raphinha is a very important footballer for me," Xavi told Mundo Deportivo. "No no. Raphinha, if it's up to me, stays at Barça and is going to help us a lot.
"He has helped us, he has made a difference. He has made a lot of differences."
Barcelona were said to be looking to recoup the money they paid Leeds United for the winger last summer with an £80million asking price, in an attempt to get his wages off the books. La Liga have told the club to trim their expenditure by €200m (£177m) by selling players and reducing wages.
However, a Whites' insider said any departure from the Nou Camp this summer would be hugely insulting towards Raphinha. He himself has also lashed out at transfer speculation, calling out an Instagram account for publishing lies.
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