Barcelona Transfer News Roundup: Catalans eyeing Argentine ace, club receive Jonathan David boost, and more - November 19, 2024

Barcelona are at the top of the LaLiga table after 13 games this season. Hansi Flick's team have won 11 and lost just twice in the league so far.

Meanwhile, the Catalans have set their sights on an Argentine prodigy. Elsewhere, the Spanish giants have received a boost in their efforts to take Jonathan David to Camp Nou.

On that note, let's look at the major Barcelona transfer stories from November 19, 2024.

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Barcelona eyeing Franco Mastantuono

Franco Mastantuono

Barcelona are keeping a close eye on Franco Mastantuono, according to Mundo Deportivo. Lately, the Argentine teenager has gone from strength to strength with River Plate and has turned heads at multiple clubs in Europe.

Real Madrid were heavily linked with Mastantuono over the summer, but a move failed to materialize. The 17-year-old attacking midfielder is now an established face with the Argentine giants and has already appeared 37 times for the senior team.

His ability to create chances in the final third has also earned him admirers at Camp Nou. The Catalans have already sent scouts to watch the youngster in October and November.

The LaLiga giants are impressed with Mastantuono, and the player will be eligible to move to Europe next summer. He recently renewed his contract with River Plate, and his release clause has been hiked to €50m.

Barcelona are unlikely to push for an immediate transfer, given their poor financial situation. The Catalans are expected to continue monitoring the youngster before coming to a decision.

Catalans receive Jonathan David boost

Jonathan David

Jonathan David has revealed that he dreams of playing for Barcelona. The Canadian striker's contract with Lille is all set to expire at the end of this season and he hasn't signed a new deal yet.

Clubs across the continent are lining up to fight for his services in 2025. The Catalans are apparently eyeing him as a possible successor for Robert Lewandowski.

The Polish striker has been in red-hot form for the club so far this season, registering 19 goals and two assists from 17 games. However, he is already on the wrong side of 30 and is likely to slow down soon. David could be his long-term replacement at Camp Nou.

Speaking to The Athletic, the 24-year-old said he grew up supporting the LaLiga giants.

“(Barcelona) were always the team I grew up supporting. When you grow up supporting a team, it’s your dream to play for them,” David said.

David has found the back of the net 13 times in 19 games for Lille this season, along with two assists.

Arsenal offer €90m for Raphinha

Raphinha is wanted back in England

Arsenal are ready to break the bank for Raphinha, according to Fichajes.net. The Brazilian has been outstanding for Barcelona this season, registering 12 goals and 10 assists from 17 games.

Hansi Flick's decision to switch Raphinha to the left wing has paid off, with the 27-year-old playing some of the best football of his career. The Gunners are long-term admirers of the player and attempted to sign him during his Leeds United days.

The north London side are now ready to return for the Brazilian and are even willing to offer €90m for his signature. However, the Catalans consider the player an integral part of their plans and could reject Arsenal's offer.

They value the player at more than €100m and will only accept a blockbuster offer to let him go. Raphinha's contract with the LaLiga giants expires in 2027.