In a recent interview with Globo, former midfield ace and current football agent Deco has admitted interest from Liverpool for his client Raphinha during the summer window. The Reds, however, did not make any official attempt to rope in the Leeds United winger despite ‘approaches’.
There were strong rumours all throughout the summer following the Brazilian’s astounding 2020-21 campaign in Leeds colours. Fabinho, who is also the international teammate of the Whites sensation, was ‘hoping’ to have Raphinha at Anfield amid discussions.
“Raphinha, since arriving in the Premier League, has had a very good performance and stands out in Leeds. In this market, there was a discussion about him going to Liverpool. I was hoping that would happen, but in the end he stayed at Leeds.“
The Liverpool midfielder told Globo Esporte.
The 24-year-old Selecao star was rejected by International and Grêmio back in his teenage days. He then began his youth career with Avaí and was later roped in by Portuguese outfit Vitória Guimarães. A successful stint there earned him a high-profile move to Sporting CP and the attacker was integral to their domestic Cup double in 2018-19. His emergence grabbed the attention of Rennes and the French side secured his services on a club-record transfer a year later.
Leeds were spot on with their scouting when they tied Raphinha down last autumn on a four-year contract. He has scored and assisted 9 times each in 38 outings [stats via Transfermarket] since plying his trade in West Yorkshire and his stupendous form saw him cementing a place in the star-studded Brazil squad of late.
Why Liverpool Should Strike A Deal For Raphinha
Liverpool, meanwhile, are blessed to have Mohamed Salah down the right-hand flank. The Egyptian is arguably among the world’s best players based on the current form and Raphinha, who is also left-footed and likes to operate as an inverted winger from the right, might have to sacrifice his preferred position if a move to Merseyside takes place in the forthcoming future.
Having said that, Jurgen Klopp has deployed Salah as a ‘number 9’ on many occasions and his prolific scoring trait should see him featuring in a similar role more frequently to incorporate the Brazilian in the attacking third. Moreover, the Leeds wideman has had his moments from the opposite flank and a bit of flexibility would resolve this problem in the long run. The Reds, therefore, need to step up the chase and conclude a deal prior to the other suitors.
