Leeds star Raphinha subject of £35m bid from Prem rival; wants release clause lowered for summer

A report has claimed Leeds United star Raphinha was the subject of a £35million bid from a Premier League rival and he wants his release clause lowered.

The 25-year-old has grabbed the attention of La Liga giants Barcelona in recent weeks. But they seem somewhat powerless to secure his signature due to their current financial woes.

After all, Leeds still have him tied down until the summer of 2024.

However, a party who would have no problem stumping up the cash would be Newcastle.

In fact, the richest club in the world recently made a move to the tune of £35m, according to UOL.

The outlet, based in Raphinha’s native Brazil, add there was no financial agreement between the Whites and the Toon.

It’s also said that the release clause in his contract is currently set at £70m.

He doesn’t want that figure to stay the same if he is to renew his deal at Elland Road.

And that’s why he and Leeds chiefs have not yet reached an agreement following multiple talks.

Raphinha agrees terms with Barcelona as Leeds exit likely

Raphinha is set to leave Leeds United for Barcelona this summer and has agreed terms with the La Liga side

As it stands, the Yorkshire club seem to hold the power in the transfer saga.

However, it largely depends on if they can secure their Premier League survival this season under Jesse Marsch.

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Relegation to the Championship would likely force them into selling Raphinha to one of Europe’s top clubs.

Liverpool have also been regularly mentioned in the conversation, while Bayern Munich emerged as contenders earlier this year too.

Raphinha has given no hint

The man himself has remained rather coy on all the speculation.

Having made his Brazil debut this season, the Qatar World Cup will no doubt factor into his thinking ahead of the transfer window re-opening.

Speaking to BBC Radio Leeds back in February, he distanced himself from the situation.

Raphinha said: “I’ve got a contract until 2024, my head is totally here and focused on Leeds.

“As for contractual matters, I leave them to my agent and my dad.

“I just focus on playing my football and making the Leeds fans happy, scoring goals, providing assists and getting victories for the team.”

READ MORE: Leeds accused of lacking ambition in back-and-forth debate surrounding star man’s future