Leeds United completed just the one signing on deadline day, as they managed to lure Rennes winger Raphinha to Elland Road.
The 23-year-old had become Leeds’ top target as they looked to bring a speedy winger to Elland Road, and they managed to get the deal over the line.
Ouest-France reported that the deal is worth €23million (£21million), and Raphinha left Rennes just a day after bagging a goal and an assist against Reims.
The Brazilian should be a hugely exciting signing for Leeds, thanks to his blistering pace and impressive end product, but much will depend on how he adjusts to life in the Premier League.
He doesn’t have to look far for inspiration, as Raphinha’s former Sporting teammate Bruno Fernandes has quickly become a star at Manchester United.
Leeds fans would be forgiven for not really paying attention to what United players say, but Fernandes is clearly a big fan of Raphinha.
The duo played together during the 2018-19 season, and Raphinha notched seven goals and five assists, leading to real praise from Fernandes.
Speaking to Record in December 2019, Fernandes admitted that he missed Raphinha due to their chemistry, and praised him for how ‘responsible’ and ‘hardworking’ the Brazilian is – which will delight Leeds fans.
“Raphinha… I miss Raphinha,” said Fernandes. “He is a player with whom I had a different chemistry from others. He understood me at a glance, he knew according to the movement of my body where I was going to put the ball to him. I also miss him because he brought joy to the locker room. He is also someone responsible and hardworking,” he added.
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