Vampeta, André Batista Santos, who won the World Cup with Brazil in 2002 and now works as a football pundit, made the allegations in an appearance on the Red Cast podcast. He acknowledged from the outset that the information came to him indirectly.
"Raphinha is facing a serious family problem, in addition to financial difficulties. He's praying to see if he'll go to Al-Hilal; he's dealing with this situation."
He elaborated on the sourcing behind the claim.
"It's a family matter. The information reached me through people close to the situation at Barcelona. He is counting on joining Al-Hilal to turn things around."
The response from Raphinha's inner circle was swift. His cousin Igor Padilha dismissed the claims publicly on social media, addressing Vampeta directly.
"You're going to have to explain these lies, my friend."
Raphinha's wife Natalia Belloli also addressed the episode through a mini-documentary on her Instagram page, calling on people with public platforms to use them responsibly rather than exposing others. She did not name Vampeta directly.
Al-Hilal have been monitoring Raphinha as a potential marquee signing this summer, with reports in Brazil suggesting the Saudi club has made him a priority target and held initial contacts. Any decision on his club future is expected to come only after the World Cup concludes.
The timing of Vampeta's remarks is particularly sensitive. Raphinha suffered a right hamstring injury during Brazil's 3-0 win over Haiti in their World Cup opener and is now undergoing an intensive recovery programme with the national team's medical staff. No timeline has been given for a return. Midfielder Lucas Paquetá gave a measured update on his teammate's condition.
"He's a little downcast. We hope it's nothing too serious, that it's the least worst-case scenario, because he's a very important player and we rely on him a lot."
Raphinha will remain with the Brazilian squad in the United States during his recovery. Whether he returns for the knockout rounds remains uncertain, but the Brazilian Football Confederation has confirmed he is receiving treatment and has not been ruled out.