Barcelona Transfer News Roundup: Catalans not in talks for Chelsea star, Newcastle United eyeing Raphinha, and more - August 12, 2024
Barcelona appointed Hansi Flick this summer as Xavi's replacement following an underwhelming 2023/24 campaign. The Catalans finished second in the La Liga table and also ended the season without silverware.
Meanwhile, the Spanish giants are not in talks to sign a Chelsea midfielder. Elsewhere, Newcastle United are planning to take Raphinha back to the Premier League this summer.
On that note, let's look at the major Barcelona transfer stories from August 12, 2024.
Barcelona not in talks for Carney Chukwuemeka, says Fabrizio Romano
Barcelona are not in talks to sign Carney Chukwuemeka this summer, according to acclaimed journalist Fabrizio Romano. The highly talented 20-year-old midfielder has struggled for chances at Chelsea and could be on the move this year.
Recent reports have suggested that the Catalans have their eyes on the Englishman. The La Liga giants are looking to get back to their best under Hansi Flick, who is eyeing multiple changes to his squad. Chukwuemeka has apparently popped up on his radar.
However, in his column for Caught Offside, Romano insisted that the Blues have yet to receive an offer for the 20-year-old.
“There has been speculation about other potential Chelsea exits as well, with Carney Chukwuemeka linked with Barcelona. Still, my understanding is that there is nothing concrete so far,” wrote Romano.
He continued:
"Chelsea have not received any bid for Chukwuemeka and the situation is currently quiet. Then in the next days we will see… but at the moment there has been no offer made to Chelsea from Barca."
Chukwuemeka is under contract at Stamford Bridge until 2028.
Newcastle United eyeing Raphinha
Newcastle United are interested in Raphinha, according to Football Insider. The Magpies are looking to upgrade their attack this summer and have set their sights on the Brazilian.
Raphinha already has experience of playing in the Premier League with Leeds United. Barcelona paid a small fortune to secure his signature in 2022 following an impressive run at Elland Road.
However, the 27-year-old has blown hot and cold at Camp Nou so far. He dropped down the pecking order under Xavi last season following Lamine Yamal's explosive start to life with the Catalans.
Raphinha's situation isn't expected to change under Hansi Flick, although the German manager would prefer to keep hold of the player. However, the La Liga giants are apparently considering his departure to raise funds this summer.
Barcelona's financial woes are not completely over yet and they are looking at player sales to address the issue. Newcastle are willing to give Raphinha an escape route from Camp Nou. The Brazilian registered 10 goals and 13 assists from 37 games across competitions last season and could be a fine fit under Eddie Howe.
However, recent reports have also suggested that the 27-year-old wants to stay with the Catalans and fight for his place. He has apparently turned down lucrative offers to move to Saudi Arabia this year.
Catalans face PSG competition for Kingsley Coman
Barcelona will face competition from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in the race to sign Kingsley Coman this summer, according to Sky Sports. The Calatans are no longer confident of securing the services of Nico Williams this year.
The Spanish forward is Hansi Flick's priority this year, but it looks like he has decided to stay with Athletic Bilbao for now. The situation has forced the German manager to consider alternatives and he has turned to Coman.
The French forward found great success during his time with Flick at Bayern Munich. However, he is no longer indispensable at the Allianz Arena and will be allowed to leave this year.
Barcelona are looking to take advantage and script a reunion at Camp Nou. However, the Parisians' entry in the race could spell trouble for the La Liga giants.
Coman rose through the ranks at the Parc des Princes and could have unfinished business in Ligue 1. The French champions have already initiated talks with the Bavarians to understand the requirements of a move. They are apparently proposing a loan deal with an option to buy.
The Catalans, meanwhile, can only make a move for the 28-year-old if they manage to raise funds through player sales.