Report: Manchester United now told they can sign Newcastle target for £51m after entering the race

Manchester United could still make further reinforcements this summer as Erik ten Hag aims to improve on a disappointing 2023/24 campaign – with a Newcastle target now on the radar.

The Red Devils have already signed Joshua Zirkzee and Leny Yoro from Bologna and Lille respectively – while Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui are on their way to Old Trafford from Bayern Munich.

While those moves should bolster Erik ten Hag‘s defence significantly, a new forward could also arrive at Manchester United – somebody Newcastle also want to sign…

Manchester United join Newcastle in race to sign Raphinha

A story from SPORT in Spain now states that Manchester United have entered the race to sign Barcelona No.11 Raphinha in the last few days.

The Spanish news outlet believe Barcelona are desperately trying to find a buyer for the Brazil international due to financial problems at the Camp Nou.

It comes after Mundo Deportivo claimed that Newcastle want to sign Raphinha as Eddie Howe searches for a new winger to play on the right.

TBR Football understand that Newcastle are also strongly considering a move for Chelsea No.11 Noni Madueke after the Blues signed Pedro Neto.

SPORT believe Barcelona have told Manchester United that Raphinha will be sold if a bid of €60m (£51m) were to be made.

However, this story should arguably be taken with a pinch of salt, as the Spanish news outlet add that Manchester United are close to selling Antony – which does not appear to be the case as no buyers have emerged for the South American.

Raphinha impressed for Barcelona in the 2023/24 campaign, scoring ten goals while also providing 13 assists in 37 appearances.

Erik ten Hag or Eddie Howe might struggle to convince the Brazil international

Interestingly, SPORT explain that Raphinha has already told Barcelona that he wants to stay in Catalonia.

The story adds that the Brazilian informed Barcelona an exit would be even more unlikely if it was made to wait until August – the final month of the transfer window – which is, obviously, where we are now at.

Therefore, it would take a seriously tempting proposal to lure Raphinha away from the Camp Nou, even if Manchester United or Newcastle were to meet the £51m asking price.

READ MORE: Manchester United make contact to sign £34m player who Arsenal are also looking at

Nevertheless, be sure to keep an eye on this situation, as Barcelona push to sell the 27-year-old this summer.