Jesse Marsch and Leeds United are starting to come to terms with the fact they could be set to lose two superstars in Kalvin Phillips and Raphinha this summer, according to insider Dean Jones.
The Whites could be set to lose two of their biggest stars this summer after a disastrous 21/22 campaign which saw them narrowly escape relegation on the last day of the season with a 2-1 win over Brentford which saw Raphinha play a key role by netting the opening goal.
However, Jones claims Marsch and the Leeds brass are looking at life without Phillips and Raphinha as it is believed Manchester City are looking at Phillips and Arsenal want to sign Raphinha.
He told GiveMeSport, “Leeds have to step forward into the future, and while they don’t want to lose Kalvin Phillips and Raphinha, there’s a new realism around the club.
“We all know that [Marcelo] Bielsa was a bit too stubborn when it came to transforming away from what was so successful, but they have to, and I think this is part of it.”
TIF Thoughts on Jones’ comments…
Leeds have already started their rebuild under Marsch with the quick signings of Brenden Aaronson and Rasmus Kristensen from Red Bull Salzburg and in order for them to continue building their new squad, selling their two most valuable assets can give them the financial bump they need.
While it will be hard to replace Raphinha, who topped the scoring charts for the Yorkshire outfit with 11 last season, and Phillips who has been a rock for them in the engine room of their squad, they might never get another chance to sell the two stars for a potential combined fee of £120 million.
It has been reported Leeds are asking for as much as £50 million for Phillips, with City circling, and they have demanded as much as £70 million for their Brazilian winger. If they can sell both for these reported amounts, it gives them a lot to work with in the transfer window which will delight their new American manager.
Who should Leeds sell?Phillips
Raphinha
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As much as I would like it Leeds are never going to get a combined total of £120M for the pair