Barcelona Transfer News Roundup: Catalans suffer Jonathan David blow, Chelsea want Raphinha, and more - December 12, 2024
Barcelona secured a hard-fought 3-2 win over Borussia Dortmund at Signal Iduna Park on Wednesday, December 11, in the Champions League. Raphinha got on the scoresheet, while Ferran Torres scored a brace to propel Hansi Flick's team to second spot in the European league table.
Meanwhile, the Catalans have suffered a setback in their efforts to sign Jonathan David. Elsewhere, Chelsea have set their sights on Raphinha.
On that note, let's look at the major Barcelona transfer stories from December 12, 2024.
Barcelona suffer Jonathan David blow
Bayern Munich are the favorites to sign Jonathan David next summer, according to SPORT. The Canadian forward is already in the final year of his contract with Lille and looks set to leave the club at the end of this season.
The Catalans are laying down succession plans for Robert Lewandowski, who will turn 37 next August. While the Pole has been firing on all cylinders of late, the LaLiga giants are preparing for the future.
David is among the candidates on Barcelona's radar for the job. The 24-year-old has been in fine form for the Ligue 1 club this season, registering 17 goals from 24 games.
His contract situation also makes him a lucrative proposal for the Catalans, who are in financial distress. However, it now appears that Bayer Munich have taken the lead in the race for the Canadian striker.
The Bavarians want to rope in the player as a backup for Harry Kane, and are ready to promise him a key role in their squad. Interestingly, David prefers a move to Camp Nou, which could work in Barcelona's favor.
Chelsea want Raphinha
Chelsea are planning a move for Raphinha in 2025, according to Fichajes.net. The Blues are long-term admirers of the Brazilian and even tried signing him when he was with Leeds United.
While Barcelona won the race for his signature in 2022, the London giants have retained their interest in the 27-year-old. Raphinha has been on fire this season, registering 17 goals and 10 assists from 23 games across competitions.
Chelsea are now planning to bring him back to the Premier League, but the player is likely to cost around €100m. The Blues haven't shied away from breaking the bank for their top targets of late, so a move cannot be ruled out. Interestingly, Arsenal are apparently in the race as well.
Newcastle United eyeing Andreas Christensen
Newcastle United are interested in Andreas Christensen, according to Caught Offside. The Danish defender is currently nursing an injury and is no longer a first-choice at Barcelona.
The player's contract expires in 2026 and the Catalans are reportedly willing to let him go for €30m next year. The Magpies are monitoring the 28-year-old's situation with interest and have apparently held talks regarding a move.
Andreas Christensen already has experience of playing in the Premier League with Chelsea and could hit the ground running with a return to England. Recent reports have suggested that Manchester United also have their eyes on the Danish defender.