Raphinha makes decision on 2026 Barcelona exit amid Saudi Arabia interest
Barcelona will be busy this summer – not only with signings, but there are also chances for significant sales. Marc-Andre ter Stegen is a strong candidate to leave the Spotify Camp Nou on a permanent basis, but his possible exit would be majorly outweighed by that of Raphinha, who continues to be linked with a move to Saudi Arabia.
Raphinha almost left Barcelona in the summer of 2024, but since Hansi Flick’s arrival, he has had a new lease of life. However, there are still thoughts about his inevitable exit, which looks increasingly likely to happen before his current contract expires in 2028.
However, there is still hope within Barcelona that Raphinha will stay for many years to come, and as per Sport, the Brazilian winger has already ruled out leaving this summer. He wants to remain at the Spotify Camp Nou until at least the end of the 2026-27 season, at which point he will make a new decision on his future.
Barcelona had been prepared to sign Raphinha replacement
Barcelona are prepared to respect any decision that Raphinha makes on his future. Had he opened the door to an exit this summer, they would have allowed him to leave if an acceptable offer were to be received. They had been ready to move for a replacement, but this has since been ruled out by sporting director Deco.
Raphinha may be staying at Barcelona for the 2026-27 season, but right now, it is difficult to say whether the same can be said for fellow left winger Marcus Rashford. The Manchester United loanee has impressed since joining last summer, but this week, it has been reported that the Catalans have reservations about completing a permanent deal for the England international.
It remains to be seen how the situation with Rashford plays out, but the one with Raphinha is clear: he stays until at least 2027.