Raphinha blistering impact on the pitch has made him priceless and turned the promising player into a superstar.
Raphinha’s contract negotiations are still in the early stages, however, initial proposals being discussed are revealing a rather unexpected approach.
Raphinha’s camp is requesting a two-year guaranteed extension, with a pay increase as well, while Barcelona is only willing to offer a one-year contract with an optional second, and they do not want to offer a guaranteed extension, according to Diario Sport.
The financial pitfalls of the past, which Barcelona were responsible for, have limited their willingness to commit to a long-term offer, even to a player in their current best form this season.
However, perhaps the most eye-catching element is the proposed release clause.
Barcelona are willing to set Raphinha’s buyout at €80 million (£68m/$90m) – an amount that seems incredibly cheap based on his current trajectory, but also seems low when we consider the characteristics of an elite player like Raphinha.
The market as we know it is a very different place from what it was like in previous eras.
We have already seen Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal linked with an approach of up to €100 million this summer, and potentially even bigger clubs in Europe will be keeping a close eye on developments.
The release clause may act as an escape plan if we need to sell him out of financial necessity, but it also greatly raises the risk of not being able to keep hold of a player who is becoming increasingly integral to their plans.
For a club that is still reeling from financial trouble, this risk could be a wise move or just folly.
Either way, Raphinha’s release clause is an indication that for €80 million, a big club would test Barcelona’s determination.
Whether the Blaugrana can retain their prized asset depends on how fast they can become financially stable, and how long Raphinha is prepared to sit tight.
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