Newcastle 'offer shock swap deal' to sign Barcelona star Raphinha

Newcastle have submitted a shock cash-plus-player offer to sign Barcelona star Raphinha, according to a report from Spain.

The Magpies have reportedly been limited to a transfer budget of around £100 million this summer due to Financial Fair Play (FFP) concerns, and therefore must spend their money wisely.

According to The Athletic, Eddie Howe's side will target two elite players, as well as bargains and loan players, in order to boost the squad for a Champions League campaign next season.

There is said to be 'no requirement' to sell players this summer - although that prospect may present itself further down the line.

As far as incomings, however, the Magpies have been routinely linked with a move for Raphinha, alongside Arsenal.

The Brazilian moved to Barcelona from Leeds last summer, scoring seven goals and providing seven assists in La Liga during his first campaign.

According to Spanish journalist Gerard Romero, Newcastle offered €80 million to sign the winger in May as an early statement of transfer intent ahead of the window opening.

But now, it has been reported that a new offer has been lodged - and it is certainly a shocking one.

Newcastle 'offer stunning swap deal to sign Raphinha'

Romero has claimed that the Magpies' revised offer is worth €30 million for the Brazilian, with a player going in the other direction.

That player, it is reported, is none other than star midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, who has been one of the Premier League's top players in his position since arriving at St James' Park from Lyon in January 2022.

Seeing the Brazilian leave the English top flight at this stage would be extremely surprising, especially given his impact after becoming Eddie Howe's first major marquee signing as Magpies boss.

But he has previously been linked with Barcelona. The Times reported last month that Xavi's side were eyeing a summer move for the 25-year-old, and were prepared to bid up to €100 million.

A move to Newcastle would represent a return to the Premier League for Raphinha, who was impressive during his spell at Elland Road between 2020 and 2022.

Speaking to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo (via Chronicle Live), however, he made clear his personal stance on a transfer: "I will stay at Barca next season and the season after next, and the season after that. I have many years on my contract and I hope to serve those years and many more."