Leeds United must tie Raphinha down to a new deal in order to receive a huge fee for him in the future, according to journalist David Anderson.
The Lowdown: Raphinha’s nightmare at Villa
Raphinha struggled massively in midweek as Leeds engaged in a rip-roaring affair at Villa Park. The 25 year-old was handed a 4/10 rating by MOT Leeds News, who called his display ‘dire’.
Indeed, the Brazil star may have just been exhausted from his international duties, but he produced perhaps his worst day in a Leeds shirt, losing possession an enormous 25 times and winning just 30% of his duels.
Hopefully, that awful performance wasn’t a sign of his effort levels waning with so many question marks over his future – West Ham made a January bid for the sparkling winger while Liverpool are reportedly eyeing a summer move.
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The Latest: Journalist makes Whites plea
In an ideal world, Raphinha would remain with the Whites for years to come, but the lure of playing Champions League football could be too good to turn down this summer.
Speaking to Give Me Sport, Anderson urged Leeds to sort a new deal for Raphinha, putting them in a stronger position if another team attempts to sign him:
“If you’ve got an asset and you tie him down, look at Harry Kane at Tottenham, all it does is bump up their transfer value because obviously the buying clubs will be like, ‘Hold on, this guy’s got three plus years left, young age. We’re going to have to pay serious money.’
“Maybe Leeds then, whether it’s this summer or summer of 2023, can then start talking about the bidding starting at 50, 60, £70m for a player like him.”
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The Verdict: Makes perfect sense
This makes complete sense from a Leeds perspective, ensuring that the worst-case scenario of an exit would at least see them receive an enormous amount for Raphinha’s services.
The 25-year-old has arguably been the Whites’ best player this season, scoring eight goals in the Premier League and standing tall while other key men have been injured.
He has been an outstanding signing from Rennes, and while his form has been a huge positive for Leeds, it has also caught the eye of some of the country’s biggest clubs.
And, with the Brazil international yet to sign a new contract at Elland Road, there is of course that nagging concern that Leeds may not get what they deserve if he eventually does move on.
In other news, an agent has claimed Leeds are interested in signing a Premier League player. Read more here.