According to multiple reliable Spanish media outlets, despite FC Barcelona enjoying one of their most competitive seasons in recent years—having reached the UEFA Champions League semifinals and maintaining serious contention in both La Liga and the Copa del Rey—the club’s ongoing financial difficulties continue to loom large.
As a result, the Blaugrana management is seriously evaluating the sale of key players this summer to alleviate financial strain, comply with Financial Fair Play regulations, and create room for strategic reinforcements.
Raphinha Tipped for Sale Despite Ballon d’Or-Level Season
One of the top candidates for a high-value sale is Brazilian winger Raphinha, who has been in red-hot form this season.
Barcelona have reportedly set a price tag of €80–90 million for the 28-year-old, who has attracted strong interest from Premier League giants such as Chelsea, Manchester United, and Newcastle United.
This potential sale comes as a surprise to many fans. Raphinha has been one of the club’s most influential players this campaign, recording 28 goals and 20 assists in 47 appearances (45 starts) across all competitions.
He played a pivotal role in Barca’s Champions League quarterfinal victory over Borussia Dortmund and continues to shine in crucial La Liga matches.
He currently leads the Ballon d’Or betting odds—making the idea of selling him during his peak form a bitter pill to swallow.
However, from a financial standpoint, cashing in on Raphinha while his market value is at its highest could prove a prudent move for a club still grappling with mounting debts and salary cap restrictions.
Nico Williams Eyed as Long-Term Replacement
Should Raphinha depart, Barcelona are expected to reignite interest in Athletic Club winger Nico Williams.
The 22-year-old Spanish international has impressed this season with his speed, dribbling, and creativity. With a €60 million release clause in his contract, Nico represents an attainable and potentially profitable investment for Barcelona.
More importantly, Nico’s profile aligns with the club’s long-term vision: younger, domestic talent that fits seamlessly into the team’s evolving identity.
Pairing Nico with rising star Lamine Yamal could form a dynamic “Golden Wing Duo” that carries Barcelona through the next generation.
Defensive Stars Also on the Market: Araújo and Koundé Linked with Premier League Moves
Raphinha may not be the only star player on the market. Reports suggest that Ronald Araújo and Jules Koundé could also be sold for the right price.
Bayern Munich and Liverpool are both keen on Araújo, whose contract reportedly contains a €65 million release clause. In a free negotiation, the fee could even reach €70 million.
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Meanwhile, Koundé is attracting strong interest from both Arsenal and Chelsea, with the Gunners rumored to be preparing an offer in the region of €75 million.
For a club in desperate need of liquidity, selling one or both of these defenders—while painful—could be a financially responsible move, particularly if viable replacements are lined up or already within the squad.
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Title Run Meets Transition Point: Barca Must Balance Performance and Prudence
With Barcelona still firmly in the hunt for a historic treble—four points ahead in La Liga, into the Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid, and on the brink of a Champions League final—the timing of these decisions could hardly be more delicate.
Disrupting a successful squad too soon could derail momentum, but failing to capitalize on peak asset values could further deepen the club’s financial woes.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona will likely adopt a “sell first, buy later” policy this summer, prioritizing the sale of high-wage or contract-nearing-expiry players with strong market value.
Sensible Rebuilding the Key to Sustainable Success
Under the leadership of Joan Laporta, Barcelona find themselves walking a tightrope—striving to deliver on-field success while regaining long-term financial stability.
Selling stars like Raphinha, Araújo, or Koundé will undoubtedly sting, but if executed wisely, and offset by the acquisition of younger, more sustainable talents like Nico Williams, it could mark the start of a smart, modern rebuild.
For fans, farewells will be emotional—but only through strategic planning and clear vision can Barça truly build a squad capable of dominating both now and into the future.
