Bayern join Man Utd, Liverpool in chase for dazzling Leeds attacker

Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich have reportedly joined Manchester United and Liverpool in the chase to sign a Leeds attacker this summer.

Italian outlet Calciomercato claims that Bayern are showing an interest in winger Raphinha, who has enjoyed an impressive first campaign at Elland Road.

The 24-year-old, who arrived from Rennes last summer, has scored five goals and added five assists in 22 league games this season.

There’s been plenty of speculation on his future over the past few weeks, although the player himself is content at Leeds.

He said: “I’m really happy to be here in Leeds being part of this institution, it’s a real pleasure. I’m really enjoying the city, I’ve really been made welcome here.”

Those comments have not stopped potential suitors weighing up an offer, however, with Leeds’ Premier League rivals at the front of the queue.

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wants a new right-winger, striker and centre-back this summer. Raphina fits the bill perfectly for the right-sided role, where he has excelled this camapign.

Indeed, Raphinha’s old Sporting teammate Bruno Fernandes is said to be in ‘daily contact’ with the player over a potential move.

As for Liverpool, Jurgen Klopp wants to freshen up his front three after a disastrous title defence.

Diogo Jota was added last summer, but Klopp wants another fresh face to put pressure on his first-choice attackers.

But with Bayern now added to the mix, that could bring about a bidding war for the impressive Raphinha.

While Leeds are not keen on selling one of their prized assets, a crazy offer may be too good to turn down.

Bielsa hints at most likely exit route from Leeds

Leeds boss Marcelo Bielsa admits that it is far more likely for a top European manager to lose their job than walk away on their own terms.

Bielsa was speaking in Thursday’s press conference, which marked his 1,000th day in charge at Elland Road.

Since then, he has masterminded the club’s dream return to the Premier League at the second time of asking.

However, their return to the top flight after 16 years has not passed Leeds by. The Whites sit 11th, with a top-flight finish still on the cards.

Bielsa is a well-travelled coach, with Lille and the Argentina national team both on his CV.

The Argentine‘s future remains very much intact, but he knows the sort of exit route he could expect when his credentials are called into question. Read more…