Dean Jones has suggested that Raphinha’s chances of being a Leeds United player next season are ‘slim-to-none’. Liverpool reportedly hold an interest in signing the 25-year-old.
Jones was speaking to GiveMeSport who have shared his quotes on the reported Liverpool transfer target this morning.
“Sadly for Leeds fans, the Bielsa exit is not the only one they will be sorrowing this year,” said the journalist.
“From what I’m hearing, the chances of Kalvin Phillips and Raphinha staying beyond this season are slim-to-none.”
Given Leeds’ position in the Premier League table, that isn’t a surprise to hear.
Raphinha has been a shining light in what has been a difficult second season back in the top tier for Yorkshire side.
With Marcelo Bielsa now sacked and replaced by Jesse Marsch, they will hope their fortunes will improve.
Liverpool will be watching the goings on with interest. Raphinha has the potential to play at a higher level and despite his recent admission that he’s ‘totally focused on Leeds (BBC Sport), he’ll surely be pushing for a move this summer.
All roads lead to Liverpool
Raphinha has long been mentioned as a potential target for Liverpool.
Journalist and transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano confirmed The Reds’ interest on Rio Ferdinand’s FIVE YouTube Channel (17mins 22secs) last year.
According to Romano, the price-tag of “over £60m”, deterred Liverpool last summer.
Rpahinha’s agent, Deco, also talked up Liverpool’s interest in his player. The former Barcelona man claimed that there were “some approaches” made by The Reds for his client in the summer (Sky Sports).
This is all very exciting for Liverpool fans. But it remains to be seen if Leeds’ evaluation of the player’s value has shifted and whether The Reds retain their interest in the Brazilian.
Raphinha’s Anfield audition
If last week’s game at Anfield between the two teams was an audition for Raphinha, then he unfortunately failed it miserably.
The winger couldn’t get into the game, tapping home an offside goal in front of The Kop his only noticeable contribution.
But Liverpool are thorough in their assessment of potential recruits. It’s unlikely that the player’s display in a 6-0 loss will have any bearing on their interest.
Kalvin Phillips’ situation is also worth keeping an eye on from a Liverpool persepctive.
As well as his Leeds teammate, the England midfielder has reportedly been of interest to Klopp too (Daily Star). Watch this space.
Receive a digest of our best Liverpool content each week direct to your mailbox
