2 years ago
Raphinha, a winger for Leeds United, is said to be attracting Liverpool's attention.
Liverpool Raphinha is a winger for Leeds United.
Liverpool are said to be interested in signing Leeds winger Raphinha. (Image courtesy )
Jurgen Klopp is apparently willing to deal with Takumi Minamino in return for Raphinha, as the Reds set to increase their pursuit of the Brazilian. With Sadio Mane poised to join Bayern Munich for the 2022/23 season, the Champions League finalists are looking to enhance their attacking options.
Raphinha was a target for Liverpool in January until they signed Luis Diaz from Porto, and he appears to be back on their radar today.
Liverpool are ready to make a play for the 25-year-old Leeds midfielder, according to The Sunday Mirror, even if it means include Minamino in the deal.
Leeds were interested in signing Minamino in January, but the deal fell through.
Jesse Marsch, his former RB Salzburg manager, is now in charge of the Whites, enhancing the chances of a transfer.
Raphinha Leeds
Raphinha is apparently attracting further interest from Liverpool (Image)
Minamino scored for Salzburg against Liverpool in the 2019/20 Champions League group stages under Marsch before joining the Reds three months later.
He might now be used as "bait" in a deal for Raphinha, who continues to pique Liverpool's interest.
Mohamed Salah has stated that he will continue at Liverpool next season, although there are concerns over his long-term future at the club.
He could essentially play out the final year of his contract, allowing him to go as a free agent in 2023, something Liverpool adamantly opposes.
Raphinha is one of the players regarded as adequate replacements, despite Leeds' willingness to play hardball.
Raphinha's contract was amended to remove a £21 million relegation clause. He doesn't have a standard release clause in his contract.
To keep their talismanic forward, who wants to play Champions League football, Leeds are expected to seek upwards of £47 million.
Barcelona is still interested in a move, but their proposals have so far been low-ball and far below Leeds' valuation.
Takumi Minamino (Leeds)
Liverpool could send Takumi Minamino to Leeds in exchange for Raphinha (Image)
Liverpool has a slew of Brazilian stars who could play a factor in persuading Raphinha to make Anfield his next destination.
Alisson, Fabinho, and Roberto Firmino are all members of the Selecao's wide front line, and their families spend a lot of time together outside of football.
Despite failing to make a formal bid, Chelsea and Manchester United have both looked at Raphinha in recent transfer windows.
Raphinha is set to leave Leeds this summer, although the Whites are under no need to sell him cheaply.
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