In a recent report, Liverpool Echo mentioned that Liverpool are showing interest in recruiting Leeds United winger Raphinha. It is understood that the Reds are keeping a keen eye on the Whites star whose current contract at Elland Road is set to run down in the summer of 2024.
Raphinha’s Impressive Form In English Football
The 25-year-old has done well to catch the eye by putting in a series of productive performances on the left side of Marcelo Bielsa’s frontline. Raphinha has found the back of the net on nine occasions and secured two assists in 23 matches for the Yorkshire outfit this season across all fronts.
The Brazilian wing wizard has been a reliable performer in the attacking end of the field based on his average of 2.8 shots, 2.0 key passes, 1.1 crosses and 2.2 dribbles per 90 minutes in the Premier League. However, he needs to work on improving his ball distribution after he made 68.6% of his attempted passes in the top tier of English football (stats via whoscored).
The 4th Official uses images provided by the following image agency:
Getty Images (https://www.gettyimages.de/)
Imago Images (https://www.imago-images.de/)
Should Leeds United Let Raphinha Leave?
Raphinha is a quick and agile winger who can make some clever runs with the ball down the right flank. The Brazilian sensation can create some meaningful openings for others around him and can strike the ball with power and accuracy from long range. However, he needs to work on improving his link-up play in the final third.
At the moment, Raphinha has established himself as one of the first names in Marcelo Bielsa’s teamsheet at Elland Road. He has been a streaky scorer for the Whites over the past 18 months but has struggled to help his team find consistency in terms of getting results in the Premier League.
At 25, Raphinha is about to enter his prime soon. Thus, Leeds United should think about retaining his services for at least the duration of his contract. However, if a club like Liverpool comes in for him later this year, it would be difficult for the Whites to not let him leave as the player’s head might be turned. Still, Bielsa should try everything in his power to keep hold of Raphinha beyond this summer.
