Harry Redknapp sends message to Leeds after capture of Raphinha

James Marshment 06 Oct 2020 9:39 AM

Harry Redknapp has no doubt in his mind that Leeds United are back in the Premier Legaue for good after surveying their transfer window dealings.

Marcelo Bielsa’s side have made an excellent start to life back in the Premier League. They pushed Liverpool hard in their opener, before beating Fulham and Sheffield United. Another acid test arrived last Saturday when they held title-contenders Man City to a draw.

Bielsa plays a brand of football that is pleasing on the eye. Furthermore, Leeds have strengthened their ranks with some high-level signings.

The latest of these arrived on deadline day when Raphinha signed from Rennes in a £16m deal.

Add that to the captures of Rodrigo, Robin Koch and Diego Llorente and Leeds have every right to feel satisfied with their window.

“They’ve bought really well,” Redknapp told Sky Sports when asked about Leeds.

“[There’s] No danger of them going back down,” Redknapp added. “I think they will establish themselves now as a Premier League team. Great support. Big club.

“I don’t see them being in any relegation scrap this year. I think they are going to do very well.”

Raphinha transfer to Leeds details

Raphinha, meanwhile, has signed a four-year deal with Leeds after sealing a deadline day move from Rennes.

The attacker, who plays on the right wing but is comfortable across the attack, has cost a reported €17m. He will wear the No 18 shirt for Leeds.

He could make his debut against Wolves at Elland Road in two weeks time.

Reports on Sunday claimed Leeds had already finalised terms with the player, though there were doubts over a work permit.

However, is since emerged that he holds an Italian passport and did not require a permit to secure the move to West Yorkshire.

Leeds have paid the same fee which Rennes paid to Sporting Lisbon to sign Raphinha in 2019.

In his debut season in France, the striker scored nine goals and assisted five others in 34 appearances. He has started this season brightly too, laying on two goals in five Ligue 1 outings.

Harry Redknapp