Barcelona Transfer News Roundup: Catalans eyeing Pep Guardiola return, club plan Raphinha exit, and more - May 21, 2024
Barcelona are preparing to face Sevilla in their final La Liga game of the campaign on Sunday, May 26. Xavi's men are all set to finish second in the league this season behind Real Madrid.
Meanwhile, the Catalans want to bring Pep Guardiola back to Camp Nou next summer. Elsewhere, the Spanish giants are planning to offload Raphinha this year.
On that note, let's look at the major Barcelona transfer stories from May 21, 2024.
Barcelona eyeing Pep Guardiola return
Barcelona are planning to take Pep Guardiola back to Camp Nou in 2025, according to Football365. The Spanish manager has enjoyed tremendous success with Manchester City, but his contract with the club expires in 2025. Guardiola recently hinted that he could leave the Etihad at the end of next season. The Catalans are keeping a close eye on the situation and want to move for him next summer.
The Spaniard first rose to prominence with the La Liga giants, winning everything on offer with the club and kickstarting their golden era. Barcelona president Joan Laporta dreams of a reunion with Guardiola and is planning to make it happen. The club are already considering Xavi's departure following a recent controversy.
The Catalans could opt to hand youth coach Rafael Marquez the charge of the first team for one campaign before their former manager returns for his second spell. Alternatively, Xavi, whose contract runs until 2025, could stay for another season before making way for Guardiola.
Catalans plan Raphinha exit
Barcelona are ready to cash in on Raphinha this summer, according to journalist Graeme Bailey. The Brazilian forward hasn't lived up to expectations since arriving at the club from Leeds United in 2022. This season, Raphinha has registered 10 goals and 12 assists from 37 games across competitions. Recent reports have suggested that Newcastle United have their eyes on the 27-year-old.
Speaking to Geordie Boot Boys, Bailey said the Catalans want to use Raphinha's exit to fund a move for Athletic Bilbao's Nico Williams.
"If Williams does go to Barcelona, it brings up the Raphinha situation. He has been offered around so keep an eye on him," said Bailey.
He continued:
"Newcastle like him. He’s 27-years-old which is a great age, and a proven Premier League performer. He’s a fascinating option for Newcastle and a few others. He’s a saleable asset and they [Barcelona] are ready to finance Williams by using him."
Raphinha's contract with the Spanish giants runs until 2027.
Xavi opens up on his future
Xavi remains confident of staying at Barcelona beyond this summer. The Spanish manager's future has been subject to specification of late, following a recent controversy. Xavi's comments regarding the Catalans' financial situation have reportedly irked the club, who are considering his exit.
Speaking to the press after Sunday's 3-0 win against Rayo Vallecano, the Spanish manager said he will sit down for talks with the club hierarchy soon, as cited by Barca Universal.
"Nothing has changed regarding my future. If something changes, I would be delighted to tell you! I’m in constant contact with the president and the technical staff. They gave me the confidence to win today, it was important. We’ll see each other soon," said Xavi.
He added:
"With the president, we spoke after our win last match and he told me we had to win against Rayo. I think I’ll see the president now. I think I have to speak with Laporta, but I’m calm. Deco, and Rafa Yuste have given me confidence too. No one has said anything to me. The president is always honest, and he will show that when we speak.”
Xavi's contract with the La Liga giants runs until 2025.