Al-Hilal’s Mega Offer for Raphinha

Saudi Arabia is once again shaking up the football transfer market. After failed attempts to sign top names like Mohamed Salah and Vinícius Jr., clubs from the Saudi Pro League have now turned their attention to one of Barcelona’s biggest stars: Raphinha.

According to multiple sources, Al-Hilal is preparing a massive financial package to lure the Brazilian winger to the Middle East. The club reportedly offered a four-year contract worth $200 million—$50 million per season until 2029—alongside a €100 million transfer fee to Barcelona.

The timing is no coincidence. After missing out on the league title, Al-Hilal is expected to spend heavily this summer. They see Raphinha as a marquee signing, particularly after losing Neymar in the winter transfer window.

Barça Wants to Keep Its Star, But the Pressure Is On

Despite the interest, Barcelona has no immediate plans to sell Raphinha. Club officials recognize that the 28-year-old is enjoying the best season of his career, with 30 goals and 23 assists in 49 appearances. These numbers have made him one of the most influential players in European football today.

Raphinha’s current contract runs until 2027, but negotiations to extend and improve his terms are currently stalled. The player feels that his salary no longer reflects his importance to the team and wants a longer, better-paid deal. Meanwhile, Barcelona prefers a shorter extension due to ongoing salary cap challenges.

This financial gap has opened the door for Al-Hilal, whose offer dwarfs what the Catalan club can propose. While Raphinha and his family have previously shown reluctance to leave European football, especially at the peak of his career, they are reportedly not ruling out any future opportunities.

For now, Raphinha wants to continue winning trophies with Barcelona, where he feels he can further cement his status as a global football icon. But with Saudi Arabia’s deep pockets in play, the situation could change quickly—especially if Barcelona’s financial pressures worsen.

The coming weeks could prove decisive. Will the Brazilian stay to lead Barça to new heights, or will he follow the money to the desert?