Noted transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano has provided some details around Raphinha and a potential future away from Leeds United.
The Brazilian has found his name in the headlines recently after claims he could be on the move in the summer.
Reports are suggesting Barcelona are looking to bring him on board in the summer and are even willing to send defender Oscar Mingueza to Elland Road as part of the deal. The La Liga side aren’t the first team to be linked with the 25-year-old, as Bayern Munich and Liverpool have also been linked with the winger.
And now according to Romano, you can now throw Arsenal into the mix of clubs that want to sign him.
Speaking on the latest edition of the Here We Go podcast, Romano hinted that the Gunners are taking a look at him, although he did note that Barcelona were still considered the frontrunners when it came to grabbing his signature.
He said: “I can tell you that Arsenal also are asking for information about Raphinha of Leeds. We’re mentioning him for Barcelona – Barcelona are leading the race for Raphinha, but also Arsenal asking [for] information for Raphinha.
“They are not leading the race because Barcelona are frontrunners, but they are looking for that kind of player.”
TIF Thoughts on Fabrizio Romano’s comments about Raphinha and Leeds United…
Would you sell Raphina this summer?
Yes
No
Whilst this might not be great for Leeds fans to hear, Romano’s comments can actually come with a bit of a positive.
Losing a key player who has got a team-leading nine goals and who leads the side in shots, key passes, dribbles and crosses per game (as per WhoScored) would be bad for them, but the more clubs that are showing an interest in him, the more likely they will be able to turn it into a bidding war.
As Romano explained earlier in the podcast (2:29): “The only release clause in the contract of Raphinha with Leeds is in case they will get relegated and it’s £25m.” So if he keeps them up, it’s set to be an open market for him.
So as a result of a possible bidding war, the price will be driven up and they might be able to get a little bit more money on their hands in order to find a suitable replacement for him.
In other news: Unreal: Leeds may have another star on their hands as footage of 17 y/o emerges – opinion