Barcelona Transfer News Roundup: Catalans suffer Luis Diaz blow, Manchester United eyeing Brazilian ace, and more - August 14, 2024
Barcelona are gearing up for their season opener against Valencia at the Mestalla on Saturday, August 17, in La Liga. New manager Hansi Flick - who took charge at Camp Nou this summer - will be eager for a good start to his tenure.
Meanwhile, the Catalans have suffered a setback in their efforts to secure the services of Luis Diaz this summer. Elsewhere, Manchester United have set their sights on a Brazilian forward.
On that note, let's look at the major Barcelona transfer stories from August 14, 2024.
Barcelona suffer Luis Diaz blow
Liverpool have no intention of letting Luis Diaz leave this summer, according to acclaimed journalist Fabrizio Romano. Recent reports have suggested that Barcelona have identified the Colombian forward as an alternative to Nico Williams.
The Catalans were hot on the heels of the Spaniard this summer, but it now appears that he will stay put at Athletic Bilbao. Hansi Flick remains eager for attacking reinforcements before the end of the transfer window and has apparently turned to Diaz.
The 27-year-old has enjoyed mixed fortunes at Anfield since arriving from Porto in 2022, but his stock remains high. Recent reports have stated that the Merseyside club are willing to cash in on the Colombian. It has also been suggested that Manchester City have a deal in place to sign Diaz this summer.
However, Romano has refuted those claims. He has also added that Liverpool expect the player to stay at Anfield beyond this summer, which could be a big blow to Barcelona's plans.
Manchester United eyeing Raphinha
Manchester United are planning a move for Raphinha this summer, according to SPORT. The Brazilian forward's future at Barcelona is subject to speculation this summer.
Pushed out of the limelight following Lamine Yamal's explosive emergence at Camp Nou, Raphinha's time at the club could be coming to an end. The 27-year-old is under contract until 2027, but the Catalans are willing to let him go to address their financial woes.
Despite dropping down the pecking order last season, the Brazilian was still effective for the La Liga giants. Raphinha registered 10 goals and 13 assists from 37 games across competitions, so he could be a fine addition to the Red Devils' squad.
The Premier League giants are unconvinced by Antony, who could be allowed to leave this year. Meanwhile, Jadon Sancho's future also remains uncertain. Raphinha could help address the situation and could be an upgrade on his countryman on the right flank.
Barcelona are willing to let the player leave for an offer of more than €60m. Raphinha would prefer to stay at Camp Nou, but could be tempted to return to the Premier League this summer.
Bournemouth interested in Vitor Roque
Bournemouth are eyeing a move for Vitor Roque this summer, according to Bar Canaletes via Caught Offside. The Brazilian forward joined Barcelona in January this year as one of the brightest prospects in the world.
However, the 19-year-old has failed to live up to expectations at Camp Nou. Vitor Roque struggled for chances under Xavi last season, registering 16 appearances across competitions, all but two of which were from the bench.
Hansi Flick was expected to assess the player over pre-season but has been left impressed. The Catalans are ready to let him go this year, and the Cherries are interested.
Bournemouth allowed Dominic Solanke to join Tottenham Hotspur this summer and are in the market for a new striker. They have set their sights on the Brazilian as a possible option. The La Liga giants are likely to let him go for a fair fee on a permanent deal, although a loan cannot be entirely ruled out.