Big indication Raphinha will join Barcelona as Leeds team-mate backs him to ‘shine’ in Spain

Leeds United defender Diego Llorente has suggested team-mate Raphinha will join Barcelona this summer, by claiming the star would ‘shine’ in La Liga.

Raphinha is one of Barcelona’s main transfer targets ahead of the window reopening. According to a report from Marca, club chiefs will soon travel to England to meet their Leeds counterparts.

They will discuss how much the winger will cost and any clauses Leeds may want to include in the deal.

More recently, Raphinha’s father spoke about the 25-year-old’s future. “There are possibilities, but these possibilities involve three parties: the interested club, the current one and the player,” he said.

“Raphinha is calm because he has a contract and all the options depend on him.

“What he knows is what has come out in the press, nothing more.”

Llorente, who is a full Spain international and played in La Liga with Real Sociedad, reckons Raphinha has the attributes to be a success over there.

During an interview with Sport, the centre-back said: “He’s a player who is a typical winger with an edge, which is becoming more and more difficult to find.

Raphinha has ‘a lot of skills’ – Diego Llorente

“He’s not afraid to face the opponent again and again. He has a lot of skills. Because of the style of the Premier League, where there is more space than the Spanish League, he stands out a lot. I am very grateful for his work and professionalism.”

When asked if Raphinha can ‘shine’ at Barca, Llorente replied: “Of course, he has the skills to do it. Then all parties must understand each other to benefit all of us. But I see his qualities for a top club.”

Raphinha certainly looks like a Barca player. His electric performances have lit up Elland Road, and Xavi will be hoping the same happens at Camp Nou.

Leeds pushing to sign Minamino from Liverpool this summer

Leeds United are pushing to sign Minamino from Liverpool to replace out going Raphinha

Leeds should pick up a big sum for the Brazil international as his contract runs until 2024. And they don’t have to bow down to the attacker’s transfer wishes after avoiding relegation to the Championship.

Meanwhile, Leeds are planning to add a second Red Bull Salzburg star to their ranks after Brenden Aaronson.