Raphinha contemplating Premier League return in summer 2023

The Brazilian winger is considering returning to the English top flight in summer transfer window

Raphinha has been linked to departing Barcelona in the summer transfer window despite offers from Premier League powerhouses like Arsenal, Chelsea, and Newcastle United, according to Joaquim Piera of SPORT.

Raphinha only signed for Barça in the summer of 2022, leaving Leeds United in exchange for a contract worth €58 million plus €7 million in add-ons. Despite a poor start, the 26-year-old has had a strong season in Spain, scoring 10 goals and assisting 11 more.

Raphinha was given a chance after Ousmane Dembele's injury in January, and the Brazilian international made the best of it. The former Leeds United star, though, is reportedly worried about his playing time at the team next season.

On the right flank, Dembele continues to be the preferred option for manager Xavi Hernandez, and as the likelihood of Lionel Messi joining the team again rises, Raphinha's playing time may be reduced.

Since his potential absence of playing time at Barça might also have an effect on his international career, the Brazilian international is evaluating the idea of returning to the Premier League even if he is happy and fulfilled at the team he always dreamed of starring for.

Raphinha still has supporters in the Premier League, which is no secret. Along with Arsenal, whose director Edu Gaspar has been calling the player's agency Deco frequently, Chelsea, who aggressively pursued his signature last summer, continues to be intrigued by the player.

Raphinha is also a target for Newcastle United, who reportedly made an oral proposal of €80 million for the winger.

The Brazilian has been told by each of the three organisations that he will receive a higher salary than the €12 million (gross) he currently receives at Barça.

Barcelona, on the other hand, would only think about parting with the 26-year-old if a bid of between €70 and €80 million came through.

Raphinha hasn't made up his mind on the future, but given the growing interest in him, the club's willingness to sell, and the player's worries about playing time in the coming season, a departure may very well happen this summer.