Barcelona to sell Raphinha to Arsenal in order to fund Lionel Messi's return to the Nou Camp

In an effort to secure funds for Lionel Messi's return, Barcelona is reportedly considering selling one of their wingers to Arsenal.

Recently, it was revealed that Barcelona has been intensifying their efforts to bring back Messi during the upcoming summer transfer window.

According to reports, there are ongoing discussions between the club and La Liga regarding the implementation of more flexible regulations for Financial Fair Play. It appears that the league has accused the club of exceeding their FFP limit with three players during the 2021-22 season.

Barcelona is said to be encouraged by the reported absence of any development in Messi's contract negotiations with PSG and intends to make an effort to re-sign the seven-time Balon d'Or recipient.

The return of the Argentinian player will likely require the team to release some of their current players. 

Raphinha is among the players who are rumored to be up for sale.

AS reports that Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur, and Newcastle United are still interested in signing Raphinha in anticipation of the upcoming summer transfer window.

It is believed that the board of Barcelona is willing to consider the sale of the 26-year-old player, provided they receive a substantial amount in return.

Barcelona acquired Raphinha from Leeds United for a fee of £55 million during the previous summer transfer window. Although he struggled to make an impact initially, he has recently performed admirably for the Catalan club.

So far this season, the Brazil international has scored nine goals and provided 10 assists in a total of 42 appearances.

According to reports, Barcelona's intention to sell Raphinha in order to facilitate Messi's return has made the player feel somewhat undervalued by the club.

Xavi, the manager of Barcelona, has not shown any intention of separating from the 26-year-old.

Back in February, Xavi referred to the Brazilian player as "the future of Barcelona".

“He’s a criticised player but he does a lot and we value him a lot”, Xavi said.

“We will always support Raphinha – he’s the future of Barcelona.”