Manchester United is reportedly preparing a record-breaking offer of around €150 million (over Rs 1535 crore) for FC Barcelona winger Raphinha, a move that would make the Brazilian one of the most expensive footballers of all time and has caused significant concern within the Catalan club.

According to reports from Telegrafi.com, the Manchester United board has prioritized Raphinha's acquisition, believing the staggering sum would be an offer Barcelona "cannot refuse" during the next transfer window.

Raphinha's Career-Defining Turnaround

The massive bid comes just over a year after Raphinha seriously considered leaving Barcelona, having been tempted by a lucrative offer from the Saudi Pro League and dealing with pressure over the club's pursuit of rival winger Nico Williams.

However, the hiring of new coach Hansi Flick proved pivotal. Raphinha was persuaded to stay and subsequently enjoyed a career-defining 2024–25 season. His contributions were central to Barcelona's success, which saw them clinch the La Liga title and reach the Champions League semi-finals – their second appearance in the final four since winning the tournament in 2015.

The Brazilian's scoring output was exceptional, recording 60 combined goals and assists across all competitions, including an incredible 22 goals in just 14 Champions League matches. His performance earned him his first-ever Ballon d’Or nomination, where he finished fifth in the final vote standings.

‘Saudi Arabia offer really tempted me’

While Raphinha is currently focused on winning the competitions at hand with Barcelona and is under contract until June 2028, he recently reflected on the huge personal decision he faced.

"The offer we had from Saudi Arabia really tempted me. It would have solved not just my personal life, but also the lives of my parents, my son...a lot of people," Raphinha told ESPN. "I thought it might be time to leave, but then we talked to [Flick]... and he managed to convince me to stay. I’m glad he did."

Despite the player's current lack of interest in moving and his strong bond with the club and its fans, the potential €150 million offer from Manchester United represents a significant financial challenge that Barcelona's board may soon have to confront.