Raphinha was heavily linked with a move to Saudi Arabia in the summer before making it clear that he wanted to prove himself at Barcelona, where he has come up with 29 goals and 33 assists in 100 appearances.
Raphinha's prospective arrival in Manchester could push Marcus Rashford out of the door, as the report adds that the Red Devils are still considering offloading the Englishman amid his renewed struggles this season.
Rashford only has one goal and one assist to show from eight Premier League appearances, and the club are also looking for a new stomping ground for the under-performing Antony, who is allegedly wanted by a number of top-flight teams on loan in January.
Xavi supposedly believes that the signing of Raphinha would give Man United a new dimension in attack, and the Brazilian could be the key to helping the Red Devils establish themselves as a force both in England and on the continent again.
Whether a deal can be agreed for the Spaniard to take charge of Man United is another matter entirely, though, as uncertainty continues to linger over Ten Hag's long-term future.