According to journalist Pete O’Rourke, contract talks between Leeds United and Raphinha have stalled, which has ‘opened the door’ to a move away from the club.
Brazil international Raphinha has been heavily linked with a move away from Elland Road.
Chelsea were believed to be leading the race to capture his services, but their delicate ownership situation appears to have forced them out of the running. As such, Barcelona have moved into pole position, with the Catalan outfit said to have been in talks with the winger’s agent, Deco, since February.
Should Leeds sell Raphinha?
Yes
No
Speaking to GiveMeSport, O’Rourke has revealed talks over a new contract to stay in Yorkshire have not moved at the desired pace, which appears to have fuelled the transfer speculation. He said: “Contract talks seem to have stalled between Leeds United and Raphinha, which has opened the door for some of the interested clubs to make a move.”
TIF Thoughts on Raphinha’s contract situation…
Having signed for the Whites in October 2020, 25-year-old Raphinha has just two years left on his current deal. It makes sense to try and come to a new agreement as it offers extra security to all involved. Currently, only Patrick Bamford and Rodrigo earn more than the Brazilian’s £63,000-a-week salary, making him one of the best-paid players at the club already.
Reports suggest potential interest from clubs across Europe led to Raphinha twice snubbing his employers earlier this year. With Barcelona’s pursuit looking solid – Fabrizio Romano has even reported on the situation – that is unlikely to have changed.
In this case, there is only so much the Leeds hierarchy can do. As good as Raphinha is – he is the club’s top goalscorer this season this term, having found the back of the net on nine occasions – he is no good to Jesse Marsch if he is looking to ply his trade elsewhere. With the summer transfer window just around the corner, expect this story to develop quickly.