A bombshell report from Spain indicates that FC Barcelona star Raphinha has a shock verbal pact with the club’s sporting director, Deco, to facilitate his eventual exit to Saudi Arabia. The agreement, which would smooth the path for a lucrative transfer, is reportedly set to activate in the summer of 2026, immediately following the FIFA World Cup, according to reports by Diario Sport and Catalunya Radio.
The pact was allegedly negotiated during the Brazilian winger’s contract renewal earlier this year, which officially ties him to the Catalan club until June 2028. While Raphinha, who has become one of Barcelona’s captains, remains fully committed to the club for the short term, the lure of the Middle East remains strong. The 28-year-old has reportedly received multiple “dizzying” financial offers from the Saudi Pro League.
From Barcelona’s perspective, the agreement provides a massive financial opportunity. Although coach Hansi Flick considers Raphinha an indispensable piece of his project, a post-World Cup sale of a star player nearing 30 could provide a crucial nine-figure income injection. This would dramatically help the financially constrained club navigate the complexities of its salary limits.
The Raphinha Saudi Arabia Pact 2026 introduces a fascinating layer of uncertainty to the star’s future. For now, the focus remains on his role in Barcelona’s current campaign. However, the existence of this verbal agreement ensures that the transfer saga involving the Brazilian winger and the cash-rich Saudi Pro League is far from over.
