Raphinha is enjoying an outstanding start to the season at Barcelona, with his improved performances strengthening the case for a new contract. The Brazilian has taken on a more advanced attacking role under Hansi Flick, a positional change that has made him more dangerous in front of goal and increasingly important to Barcelona’s tactical approach.

The 29-year-old remains open to extending his stay at Camp Nou, but negotiations have been delayed by the fact that he currently does not have an official agent. Raphinha previously worked with Deco when he first joined Barcelona, but their professional relationship ended after Deco became the club’s sporting director because of the potential conflict of interest. Since then, Raphinha has continued his career without a formal representative.

The situation is now expected to change as the contract discussions become more significant. According to reports, Raphinha is in the process of selecting a new agent who will take charge of negotiations with Barcelona, with the identity of his new representative expected to be revealed soon. Once the appointment is completed, talks over the new agreement could move toward their final stage.

Barcelona have strong reasons to secure Raphinha’s future after his growing influence under Flick. Sporting director Deco has already indicated that an agreement has been reached for the forward to remain at the club until 2030, suggesting that the main terms are largely settled. The appointment of a new agent would therefore represent an important final step before the new contract can be formally completed.