Transfer update: Raphinha linked with Spurs move as January window approaches

According to Mundo Deportivo, Tottenham are interested in acquiring the talents of Brazilian winger Raphinha from FC Barcelona.

The La Liga side are currently abundant in the attacking role with Lamine Yamal, Ferran Torres, Joao Felix, and Joao Cancelo among their options for the wide position.

The former Leeds player has Premier League experience under his belt, 65 games of it in fact, with 17 goals and 12 assists in hand throughout the competition, and therefore has the potential to be an impact signing for Spurs.

Now, reports from AS indicate that other reasons may push the deal in the right direction. As The Spurs Web writes, AS’s article reveals a concern among the Spanish club about the winger’s recent dip in form since returning from injury. The Brazilian picked up a hamstring knock at the end of September seeing him miss four games. Now, despite his return to fitness, it seems that Xavi is opting for others to play in the wide role.

The added factor of Barca’s financial dilemma may force the club to keep their ears open to potential deals, especially for high-value players like Raphinha who comes in at €60.0m according to Transfermarkt. While Spurs spent substantially over the summer, a potential Richarlison move to Saudi Arabia may provide the perfect influx of funds to get the deal done.

Tottenham have reportedly been looking at a slew of attacking options to add to their ranks this January, with Juventus’ Samuel Iling-Junior of interest as well. Spurs’ current depth has been severely limited with long-term injuries dealt to Manor Solomon, Richarlison, Ivan Perisic, and Ryan Sessegnon, along with midfield playmaker James Maddison. Needless to say, signings may be warranted.

At present, Ange Postecoglou is reliant on the services of Brennan Johnson, Heung-min Son, and Dejan Kulusevski across the front line, with Alejo Veliz and Bryan Gil among the current alternate list. While the starters offer an immense goal-scoring threat, Veliz has barely played for the senior squad and Gil hasn’t seen regular minutes in a while.

Reinforcements in attack would surely help, but it’s important to note that the move for Raphinha will likely depend on a number of factors like the Richarlison deal, as well as whether or not Tottenham are able to complete signings of less expensive attacking options, such as Feyenoord’s Santiago Gimenez.

At present, the transfer priority still seems to be in defense, but fans should continue to monitor the situation with the Brazilian winger given the interest from Spurs and apparent lack thereof from Barca in the player’s future.