BREAKING NEWS: Guardiola intensifies his pursuit of Barcelona’s star player. The new sporting director at Manchester City delivers a stern warning to Barça, making it clear that signing the player who is central to their lineup is his top priority. Flick hits back, saying, “Not going to happen!”

Barcelona’s impressive season has drawn attention from top European clubs, eager to recruit the team’s talented players, whose exceptional technical skills have shone under Hansi Flick. Among those showing interest is Manchester City, whose new sporting director, Hugo Viana, has reportedly set his sights on a key Barcelona player.

According to “El Nacional,” Viana joined Manchester City with the goal of strengthening the squad, and he has identified Brazilian winger Raphinha as a primary target for the upcoming transfer window.

As the new sporting director following Txiki Begiristain, Viana is keen on adding Raphinha’s speed, dribbling ability, and goal-scoring potential to City’s attacking lineup, seeing him as a perfect fit for Pep Guardiola’s dynamic style.

Manchester City’s motivation for this pursuit is clear: to reinforce their attacking options in both the Premier League and Champions League, where Raphinha’s skills could help maintain their competitive edge. Viana, known for his sharp transfer acumen, views Raphinha as an ideal addition to Guardiola’s squad.

However, Barcelona’s stance on Raphinha is firm. Hansi Flick considers the Brazilian winger essential to his squad, and Raphinha has become a cornerstone of Barcelona’s success this season.

His role on the wing, ability to penetrate defenses, and contributions to key players like Robert Lewandowski have been instrumental in many of Barcelona’s wins. Club president Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco also regard Raphinha as “untouchable” and have no intention of selling him.

Despite Barcelona’s strong resistance, Manchester City may not easily back down. With Viana at the helm and City’s considerable financial resources, they are in a position to make an extremely attractive offer that could put Barcelona’s resolve to the test.

While Barcelona remains steadfast in keeping Raphinha, City could still pursue the player with a substantial contract and a promising role in Guardiola’s squad.

Ultimately, while Manchester City’s interest in Raphinha highlights the Brazilian’s rising stock in European football, it’s clear Barcelona values his contributions too highly to part ways.

As City prepares for an intense transfer window, Raphinha’s future will be closely watched, with Barcelona aiming to retain one of their most valuable assets and City determined to bolster their attack with a top talent.