Man United eyeing record-breaking move to sign Barcelona forward – Report | OneFootball

Man United considering record-breaking move for Barcelona star

Manchester United’s transfer strategy under Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS continues to evolve, with the club reportedly weighing up a potential move for Barcelona winger Raphinha, according to Fichajes. The Spanish outlet claims United are prepared to table a €120 million (£104 million) bid for the Brazilian, which would surpass their current transfer record.

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Record-breaking move under consideration

As per Fichajes, Raphinha remains high on United’s long-term shortlist, with a 2026 transfer being explored. The report suggests that United view him as a key component of their rebuilding project, believing his attacking quality and work ethic could complement the system expected to remain in place under Ruben Amorim or any future manager.

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Since joining Barcelona from Leeds United in 2022, Raphinha has made 151 appearances, registering 57 goals and 53 assists. Despite those impressive numbers, he has not been an automatic starter under Hansi Flick, with Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres often preferred in wide areas.

A source close to Fichajes explained: “Barcelona would prefer to keep Raphinha, but a bid of that size could prove irresistible.”

If such a move were to materialise, it would eclipse the £90 million fee United paid for Romelu Lukaku in 2017 and signal a major statement of intent from the new INEOS-led ownership structure.

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Squad priorities and alternative plans

However, while admiration for Raphinha exists, sources close to Old Trafford indicate that United’s immediate focus lies elsewhere. The club’s recruitment team are prioritising midfield reinforcements and defensive depth before committing to another high-profile attacking signing.

Targets such as Carlos Baleba of Brighton, valued at around £100 million, remain top of the wishlist, alongside Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace and Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest. United are also keeping an eye on Jobe Bellingham, while plans to add a new wing-back and centre-back could take precedence in the summer window.

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Despite the rumours, insiders remain sceptical that United would commit such an enormous outlay on a player in a position already well covered by the likes of Mason Mount, Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo and Matheus Cunha.

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This report feels like another case of United being linked with a marquee name when the priorities lie elsewhere. There is little doubt about Raphinha’s ability: his output at Barcelona and energy on the right wing would add technical quality and Premier League familiarity. Yet, at €120 million, supporters might struggle to see this as a sensible use of resources.

The rebuild under Ratcliffe must balance ambition with structure. United have been burnt before by chasing headline signings that do not align with tactical requirements. The idea of spending over £100 million on another winger, when the squad already includes emerging talents and several senior wide players, raises understandable scepticism.

Most fans would argue that investment should be directed toward midfield control and defensive solidity, areas that have plagued United for years. Strengthening those foundations before adding another luxury attacker would make far more sense.

That said, United’s history of bold transfers means no rumour can ever be dismissed entirely. Should Raphinha genuinely become available and Barcelona’s financial needs force their hand, the allure of securing a Premier League-proven star could once again test the resolve of Old Trafford’s decision-makers.