Journalist does not think £55m star wants to join Newcastle this summer

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Barcelona could get rid of Raphinha after just one year, but a move to Newcastle United does not appear to be on the horizon.

That is the view of journalist Ben Jacobs, who has commented on rumours linking Newcastle with a move for Raphinha.

He was a target for Eddie Howe last summer, but joined Barcelona instead. He cost £55million from Leeds United, and has done well since his move to Spain.

However, there is now speculation that Barca could sell him already, with Newcastle keeping an eye on his situation. It was even reported that the Magpies had indicated that they were willing to break their transfer record to sign the 26-year-old.

That story was quickly played down, and now Jacobs has shed some more light on why Raphinha to Newcastle is probably not going to happen during this summer’s transfer window.

Jacobs not sure if Raphinha fancies Newcastle transfer

Speaking on the Football Terrace on YouTube, journalist Ben Jacobs was asked about Raphinha potentially moving to Newcastle ahead of next season.

“Newcastle is one possible destination,” he said.

“I feel like that particular link has been overfueled and turned into something which doesn’t have as much substance and the reason for that is because Newcastle effectively want a creative minded player, which is why they want James Maddison, but I’m not aware of anything concrete between Newcastle and Raphinha. I’m not aware of any approach.

“When Raphinha was at Leeds, prior to Barcelona move, prior to Arsenal’s interest, prior to Chelsea’s offer, Newcastle were asking about Raphinha and he wasn’t remotely interested.

“I don’t think there’s anything in Newcastle and Raphinha at this point and I think if Newcastle move for a creative minded player it is more likely to be someone of the profile James Maddison than Raphinha, because I’m not sure if Raphinha has any interest in Newcastle.”

Barcelona just looking to cash in

Newcastle’s interest in Raphinha has been played down, and now Raphinha’s interest in joining Newcastle has also been played down.

All roads appear to lead to the Brazilian not signing for Howe’s side this summer. That is a slight shame, as he is a top class player who looked like a real star in the Premier League when he was with Leeds.

But it does not sound like either party is keen – although that likely won’t bring an end to the speculation in the media. Most of the noise has come from Spain, which would perhaps suggest that it is merely Barcelona trying to manufacture a move.

They obviously need to recoup some cash given their dire financial situation, while they are also interested in bringing Lionel Messi back to the club.

That is why players like Raphinha are reportedly being made available, and Newcastle have the type of deep pockets that Barcelona would like to exploit.

However, it does not look like they will get their wish.