Impressive Prem loanee enters Leeds thinking as Barcelona ‘gain hope’ over Raphinha swap deal

Leeds United would reportedly ‘be open’ to taking Barcelona ace Francisco Trincao on board, potentially as part of a deal to send Raphinha the other way.

Speculation over a move for Raphinha has been rife this season. Indeed, the Brazilian has become one of Leeds’ most crucial assets over the past couple of seasons. In his first term, he contributed to 15 top-flight goals, and has continued his good form this season, with 12 goal contributions so far.

Given his stellar form during his time at Leeds, big clubs have registered an interest. Chelsea, Liverpool and Barcelona are among those clubs to have been linked with Raphinha.

Indeeed, Barcelona appear to be the frontrunners to land the Brazilian with reports even stating he has agreed personal terms with the Spanish giants.

That said, Leeds’ position on Raphinha remains very clear. Any efforts from Barcelona to sign Raphinha in a cut-price deal will be given short shrift by the Whites.

Furthermore, Leeds are in no mood to discuss the player’s future until their safety is a guarantee. When that is done, a conversation will be had between Leeds and the player’s agent Deco.

And as far as the Whites are concerned, they still want to tie the player down to a new and improved deal.

In addition, he won’t be allowed to leave on the cheap with Leeds reportedly making clear their valuation of Raphinha.

Leeds United value Raphinha at £70m putting many teams off

Leeds United value Raphinha at £70m which will put off Barcelona, Bayern Munich and PSG

However, Mundo Deportivo now claim that Leeds have interest in a Barcelona star as a potential makeweight in any deal.

And the name seemingly at the top of Jesse Marsch’s thinking is impressive Wolves loanee Trincao.

The winger is currently plying his trade on loan from Barca, though it appears unlikely they will trigger the option to buy him on a permanent basis.

Leeds reportedly open to taking Trincao

The report suggests that Leeds ‘would be open’ to taking Trincao on board.

What’s more, Whites boss Marsch has apparently ‘marked’ his name. And were Barcelona to persist in their bid for Raphinha, Trincao may yet prove to be his replacement.

Indeed, the Portuguese scored and assisted against the Whites earlier this month.

There is nothing official to suggest that Leeds would, in fact, take Trincao on board in the deal though.

However, given Raphinha’s apparent desire to move on, having a back up lined up is a smart move.

READ MORE: Leeds set asking price for Raphinha as Barcelona chief makes clear statement of intent