A Barcelona player moving to Tottenham this summer has now been described as a realistic transfer.
Ange Postecoglou certainly seems to have fallen out of love with his Spurs squad a bit in recent weeks, with cameras catching the Australian screaming and pointing at some players during the 2-0 defeat to Chelsea, demanding more forward passes.
A report from the Telegraph even claims that the 58-year-old is willing to offload a number of senior players this summer, with Emerson Royal and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg at risk of being sold.
Nevertheless, let’s focus on incomings rather than outgoings, as a Barcelona player could be joining Tottenham this summer…
Raphinha backed to join Tottenham
A story from Mundo Deportivo now describes the chances of Barcelona No.11 Raphinha moving to Tottenham as a realistic prospect this summer.
The Spanish news outlet state that Spurs have wanted to sign the Brazil international for some time, and could now finally secure his signature.
Mundo Deportivo believe a sum of €55m (£47m) will be enough to seal a deal – given Barcelona’s need for a major sale due to financial issues.
There is – however – a problem.
The report states that Raphinha does not want to leave Barcelona at the end of the season, and Mundo Deportivo add that he feels he is now a key player after performing a leading role in the past 11 games.
In those past 11 outings, the South American scored an impressive double against PSG in the UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg, and also netted a vital goal in the 1-0 win over Las Palmas.
Despite Raphinha’s efforts, Barcelona’s financial issues are well documented, and the need for a major sale may outweigh what the Brazilian has done this season.
The 27-year-old has scored nine goals while also providing 12 assists in 35 games across all competitions.
Threat for Dejan Kulusevski
If Raphinha does end up at Tottenham, it will be interesting to see what Postecoglou does with Dejan Kulusevski – who also lines up on the right and cuts inside on his stronger left foot.
The Sweden international has only scored one Premier League goal since December, so – despite his obvious talent – he is not exactly bulletproof at Tottenham.
There is a possibility of Kulusevski moving into the centre – where he used to play – although James Maddison occupies that spot.
As a result, a deal for Raphinha would surely have the Swede questioning his situation.