Barcelona Transfer News Roundup: Manchester United want Dutch ace, Barca eyeing Luis Henrique, and more - December 6, 2024
Barcelona are putting together final preparations ahead of their visit to the Benito Villamarin on Saturday, December 7, to face Real Betis in LaLiga. Hansi Flick's team arrive at the game buoyed by their 5-1 win over Mallorca in the league in midweek.
Meanwhile, Manchester United are looking to move for a Dutch midfielder in 2025. Elsewhere, the Catalans are interested in Luis Henrique.
On that note, let's look at the major Barcelona transfer stories from December 6, 2024.
Manchester United want Frenkie de Jong
Manchester United have reignited their interest in Frenkie de Jong, according to Fichajes. The Red Devils are long-term admirers of the Dutch midfielder and previously wanted to sign him under Erik ten Hag.
However, a move never materialized, given how important the player is to Barcelona. But with the 27-year-old's contract set to expire in 2026, his future has been making headlines again.
The Catalans are under financial distress and De Jong is one of the biggest earners at the club. His departure could help the LaLiga giants address their monetary woes.
It now appears that Ruben Amorim is also a fan of the Dutchman. The Portuguese took over as the Red Devils head coach last month following Erik ten Hag's dismissal.
Amorim is working to shape his squad according to his tactics and apparently believes that De Jong could be a good fit in his 3-4-3 system. Manchester United are likely to test Barcelona's resolve in 2025 but will face competition from Tottenham Hotspur.
With the player yet to sign an extension at Camp Nou, a move could materialize next summer.
Barcelona eyeing Luis Henrique
Barcelona have set their sights on Luis Henrique, according to SPORT. The Brazilian joined Real Betis from Fluminense in 2022 but struggled to find his feet with the Andalusian club.
He returned to Brazil in January to join Botafogo and has since turned his career around. He has registered 12 goals and six assists from 53 games across competitions and has even earned a call-up to the national team.
The Catalans are looking for a new left forward and have set their sights on Henrique. Hansi Flick wants more competition for Lamine Yamal and Raphinha in his team and the Brazilian has emerged as an option
The LaLiga giants are now keeping a close eye on the 23-year-old. He is under contract with Botafogo until 2028.
Al-Ittihad interested in Raphinha
Al-Ittihad are planning to move for Raphinha in 2025, according to Fichajes. The Brazilian has been outstanding for Barcelona this season, registering 16 goals and 10 assists from 21 games.
The player's efforts have already turned heads at multiple clubs in Europe and the Middle East. Al-Ittihad are keen to win the race for his services and are ready to offer the player astronomical wages to prise him away.
Raphinha has rediscovered himself under Hansi Flick this season and remains one of the Catalans' most important players. The interest from the Saudi side will be a cause of worry for the LaLiga giants. However, the 27-year-old has always maintained he is happy at Barcelona and is under contract until 2027.