BREAKING NEWS Barça star Raphinha admitted: “I tried everything to persuade him to come to Barcelona, but he’s determined to join Manchester United. I honestly don’t understand what he sees in them, and I’m not pleased with his choice.”

 

Breaking Transfer Twist: Raphinha Disappointed as Brazilian Star Picks Manchester United Over Barcelona

 

The transfer window has taken an unexpected turn, with Barcelona winger Raphinha openly voicing his frustration after failing to convince a fellow Brazilian talent—reportedly valued around £90 million—to choose the Camp Nou.

 

Despite Raphinha’s determined efforts, the player has instead agreed terms with Manchester United, leaving the Blaugrana winger both surprised and upset.

 

Speaking candidly, Raphinha admitted: “I tried everything to bring him to Barcelona, but he is set on signing with Manchester United.

 

Honestly, I can’t understand what he sees in their project. I’m not happy with this outcome.” His comments quickly went viral, sparking heated debate among supporters online.

 

Who Is the Mystery Signing?

The identity of the player has not been officially confirmed, though speculation in Spain points toward Sporting CP forward Viktor Gyökeres.

 

Others insist Wolves striker Matheus Cunha could be the one in question. What is certain is that Manchester United have already secured a personal agreement with the Brazilian, who is expected to undergo medical tests this week before completing the move.

 

United’s Ambitious Rebuild

United’s management, desperate to improve after a disastrous 2024/25 campaign in which they scored only 28 goals from open play, see this signing as a cornerstone of their rebuild under new boss Rúben Amorim.

 

Reports indicate the deal includes a three-and-a-half-year contract and a lucrative salary package, underlining the club’s determination to restore their attacking threat.

 

Barcelona Left Empty-Handed

For Barcelona, missing out on such a prized target is a major blow. The Catalan giants had hoped Raphinha’s personal influence, alongside the lure of playing with emerging star Lamine Yamal, would be enough to secure the signing.

 

Instead, Manchester United’s offer of both money and a guaranteed starring role proved more convincing.

 

Raphinha, who just enjoyed a stellar season with 34 goals and 25 assists in 57 appearances, personally highlighted Barcelona’s recent domestic success under Hansi Flick—La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Spanish Super Cup triumphs—to attract his compatriot.

 

But the player ultimately chose Old Trafford, leaving Barça scrambling for alternative options.

 

A Win for United, a Setback for Barça

For United, the deal represents a bold statement of intent as they attempt to bounce back from last season’s struggles.

 

For Barcelona, it is a reminder of their financial limitations and a signal that they must look elsewhere to reinforce their attack.

 

Raphinha, who remains under contract until 2028, may be committed to the club, but his disappointment reflects a growing sense of unease at Camp Nou.