Barcelona Transfer News Roundup: Catalans eyeing Chelsea ace, Arsenal wanted Raphinha this summer, and more - November 6, 2024
Barcelona travel to the Red Star Stadium, Belgrade, on Wednesday, November 6, to face Crvena zvezda in the Champions League. Hansi Flick's team have won two and lost one in Europe this season and come into the game in fine form.
Meanwhile, the Catalans are interested in an Argentine midfielder who plays for Chelsea. Elsewhere, Arsenal were keen to take Raphinha back to the Premier League this summer.
On that note, let's look at the major Barcelona transfer stories from November 6, 2024.
Barcelona eyeing Enzo Fernandez
Barcelona have set their sights on Enzo Fernandez, according to The Sun. The Argentine midfielder arrived at Chelsea in January 2023 in a £106.8m deal from Benfica but has blown hot and cold so far.
He has particularly struggled under Enzo Maresca this season, dropping down the pecking order of late. Fernandez has registered 13 appearances across competitions, nine of which have been starts.
However, he has now started the last three league games from the bench, adding to speculation regarding his future. The Catalans are keeping a close eye on his situation, along with Inter Milan.
For now, the 23-year-old remains determined to fight for his place under Maresca. Barcelona, on the other hand, are under economic turmoil and may not be able to afford Fernandez's steep price tag.
Arsenal wanted Raphinha this summer
Arsenal attempted to prise Raphinha away from Barcelona this summer, according to The Mirror. The Gunners were looking to upgrade their attack over the summer and had set their sights on the Brazilian.
Former sporting director Edu reportedly held talks with the 27-year-old, who sought assurances over game time before a move. Ultimately, the transfer failed to materialize as Raphinha opted to stay at Camp Nou and fight for his place.
It has turned out to be a fantastic decision, with the player now in red-hot form under Hansi Flick. The Brazilian has registered 11 goals and nine assists from 15 games across competitions already for the LaLiga giants this season.
Catalans eyeing Mohamed Salah
Barcelona are planning a Bosman move for Mohamed Salah next summer, according to journalist Luis Miguelsanz. The Egyptian forward's contract with Liverpool is all set to expire at the end of this season and he is yet to sign a new deal.
Salah was reportedly a target for former manager Xavi as well, but the Catalans failed to script a deal due to his exorbitant wages. However, the LaLiga giants are now tempted by the prospect of signing the 32-year-old for free next year.
Liverpool remain keen to tie him down to a new deal, given that the player has continued to deliver so far. Salah has registered nine goals and nine assists from 16 games under Arne Slot. Barcelona are likely to face competition from Saudi Arabia for his signature.