Pundit shares genuine Leeds exit fears on Raphinha as skill clip goes viral

Raphinha Leeds v Crystal Palace

Leeds players and staff will be fully expecting to lose star winger Raphinha this summer if he continues his rapid progression at Elland Road, according to a pundit.

The £17million signing has scored four goals and assisted four others in 17 Premier League appearances. Indeed, his skills have lit up the Premier League in recent months. The Brazilian was named Man of the Match as Crystal Palace were comfortably put to the sword at Elland Road on Monday evening.

Such has been the rise of Raphinha that there is already speculation mounting suggesing he could attract a big-name suitor.

Reports over the weekend claimed that Liverpool scouts are watching Whites’ October arrival Raphinha with intent.

Losing the Brazilian would be a blow to Leeds after only one season, but according to Fichajes, it is one which Marcelo Bielsa is willing to accept.

Indeed, they claim the Leeds boss has already set his sights on a Juventus star as a possible replacement.

Speaking to Sky Sports after the game, Chris Coleman reckons Leeds’ squad will be well aware of interest in Raphinha.

“On current form of course [bigger clubs will be interested],” he said.

“But we’re not saying anything that the Leeds fans don’t know, or Marcelo Bielsa doesn’t know.

“The Leeds players will be talking about that. If you have a standout player like that who keeps producing performances of that level, it’s obvious you’re going to get attention from the big boys.”

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Leeds striker Patrick Bamford has also admitted that Raphinha stood out from the moment he arrived at the club.

He said: “He’s been a steal for Leeds. When players come in you can see straight away what quality they bring. He was top class and stood out right away.

“I’m surprised more established Premier League teams didn’t take a punt on him. He’s something special.”


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Raphinha clip goes viral

Interest in the winger intensified on Monday night after the winger produced an outrageous piece of skill against Palace.

Picking up the ball just outside the area, Raphinha produced a back-heeled pirouette that left Gary Cahill’s wondering what day of the week it was.

The clip was quickly shared by a number of excited fans, while pundit Jermaine Beckford was also quick to share it in all its glory.

READ MORE: Bielsa reveals area of Leeds game that impressed him most in Palace win