Graeme Bailey has claimed on the latest episode of Talking Transfers that Newcastle United could soon step up their interest in Raphinha.
The Magpies finally made their first breakthrough of the transfer window – which isn’t officially open yet – when they agreed to sign Matt Targett on a permanent basis after being an ever-present in Eddie Howe’s side last season, apart from the one game against then-parent club Aston Villa.
While that is a solid piece of business for someone who slotted in seamlessly on Tyneside, Howe will know he needs to add more goals to a side that scored just 44 times in the league last season, which could be why they are seeing themselves linked with a move for Brazilian winger Raphinha.
Bailey believes that the Magpies could soon step up their interest in the winger, despite the likes of West Ham United and Barcelona also keen on him.
Should Newcastle pay £60m for Newcastle?
Yes!
No!
He said: “Raphinha is one I’d keep an eye on, you know. I think you may even see Newcastle starting to strengthen their interest as well, but basically, he’s going to leave Leeds, he’s not going to get the contract he wants off Leeds United.”
TIF Thoughts on Raphinha’s future…
It would be a mouth-watering prospect for Newcastle and their fans to imagine having Allan Saint-Maximin on one wing and Raphinha on the other, as combined last season, they managed to complete 199 dribbles as well as rack up 24 goal involvements.
However, Leeds have reportedly slapped a £60m price tag on his head, which could put the Magpies off, as they seemingly baulked at that price tag for Moussa Diaby, so coupled with interest from other clubs, it doesn’t appear to be a deal that could get done quickly, if at all.