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‘More than attracted’ Raphinha keen on move overseas as source names likely next club for Leeds star

Raphinha, Leeds Utd winger during the Premier League win over Norwich at Elland Road

Leeds United winger Raphinha has genuine interest in one particular European side should the chance materialise, according to a trusted transfer guru.

The Brazilian, 25, has been Leeds’ most potent attacking threat this season. In the long absences of Patrick Bamford, Raphinha put the club on his back and helped keep their heads above water in the first half of the campaign. Indeed, his nine goals and two assists prior to the Norwich game were proof of that.

His high standards suffered a notable drop since the turn of the year, however. That said, his serious bounce-back display against Norwich on Sunday came at just the right time. Indeed, the Brazil winger created the winner for Joe Gelhardt by rounding Tim Krul with a sublime piece of skill.

The win was exactly what Leeds United and new boss Jesse Marsch needed. Next on the agenda is Friday night’s trip to Wolves. And Raphinha will hope to be at the top of his game once again in the clash at Molineux.

Whether Leeds can retain the Brazilian’s services beyond this summer remains to be seen. He will very much be a man in demand with a number of high-profile suitors.

Indeed, the likes of Bayern Munich, Manchester United, Liverpool, PSG and Chelsea are all reportedly admirers.

However, Fabrizio Romano raised the possibility of a move to Barcelona earlier this week.

Romano made it clear ‘no talks’ between Barcelona and Leeds have taken place yet. At this stage, any rumblings over a move are behind the scenes between Deco and Barca – who the Portuguese played for between 2004-08.

Raphinha attracted to Barcelona

Now the transfer oracle has explained in greater detail how a move to Barcelona could yet come about.

Speaking on his Here We Go Podcast, Romano claims the 25-year-old would be very keen on the move.

“Barcelona, they have a great relationship with Deco,” Romano explained. “He is actually even working with the club and he’s really close to Laporta. He’s the agent of Raphinha. So this is why the relationship is great.

Raphinha waiting for Real Madrid and Barcelona

Raphinha waiting for Real Madrid and Barcelona

Leeds United will struggle to keep hold of Raphinha as Chelsea, Liverpool, Bayern Munich, Real Madrid and Barcelona all want him and he wants La Liga

“Raphinha could have some exit clauses in his contract in case Leeds go to the Championship. So it depends on Leeds, this is why there is no negotiation on the clubs’ sides. But Barcelona are really interested in Raphinha. And from what I’m told, the player would be more than attracted to Barcelona.”

Leeds ‘looking for new left back’

Were they to sell Raphinha, Leeds would be hoping for big money for their prized asset.

Indeed, they could likely command a fee of upwards £50m – money which could be reinvested into the side.

One player they could look to replace is left-back Junior Firpo.

He has struggled for form this season. And, having been stretchered off against Aston Villa last week, pundit Kevin Phillips reckons he’ll never be seen in a Leeds shirt again.

“It looks like he’s picked up a really bad injury there, first of all,” he said.

“But it’s just really not worked for him in a Leeds shirt at all.

“I don’t think they have time to mess about in the transfer window now. They can’t stand by and wait for him to reach the required level; they need him to be ready now.

“If they were to drop down to the Championship that could be a more suitable league for him to find his feet in. But that obviously isn’t the ideal scenario for them.

“Hopefully Junior Firpo can make a speedy recovery but I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s not around next season.”

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