NEWCASTLE are reportedly plotting a move for Barcelona star Raphinha as they target “three or four” major transfer signings.
The Magpies took a huge leap towards securing Champions League football by thrashing top four rivals Tottenham 6-1 on Sunday.
We had already revealed that Newcastle’s Saudi owners were set to abandon their cautious approach in the transfer market by attempting to bring in four “elite” stars.
A massive outlay of around £250million across the last three transfer windows gave rise to the club’s owners wanting to err on the side of caution to stay within Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules.
However, the rapid progress made under Eddie Howe has seen this plan scrapped.
Now one of those being targeted is former Leeds winger Raphinha, according to Mundo Deportivo.
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The North East side were keen on the Brazilian winger last year before he opted to leave Elland Road for the Nou Camp.
The 26-year-old is desperate to stay with Barcelona.
But this fresh update states that the financially stricken club must reduce their salary budget by £176m and bring in at least £88m from transfer sales to balance the books.
Raphinha has scored nine goals and produced nine assists in 41 appearances this season.
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But he has been left frustrated at not being deployed in his preferred right-hand side position.
He is allegedly not viewed as a priority player by boss Xavi Hernandez and Barca are believed to be open to his departure.
And now it looks like Newcastle are readying a swoop to try and bring him to Tyneside.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
