Everton are well and truly in a relegation battle, and as you can imagine, Liverpool supporters have been feeling a little smug about the Toffees’ misfortune.
The two Merseyside clubs are the greatest of rivals, and understandably, Reds supporters have been revelling in Everton’s poor form.
However, in our view, there’s one big reason why Liverpool fans should actually be hoping that Everton’s form picks up.
Indeed, Everton’s three big rivals in this relegation battle are Watford, Burnley, and perhaps most importantly for Liverpool, Leeds United.
Leeds are starting to pull away from the pack, but if Everton’s form improves, they could be right back into the mix, and if Leeds are relegated, Liverpool stand to gain.
Why would Leeds going down help Liverpool? Well, the Reds are long-term admirers of Raphinha, and according to reports, he has a clause in his contract that will allow him to leave for just £25m if the Whites find themselves back in the Championship.
If Leeds stay up, Raphinha will likely cost a whole lot more than that, so it may be in their best interests for Everton to pip Leeds to safety.
Of course, Liverpool would also need one of Burnley or Watford to pick up form in order for Leeds to finish in the bottom three, but with Everton’s squad and stature, they’re probably the most likely side to catch Leeds at the moment.
Liverpool fans have every right to be smug about Everton’s relegation chances, but the Toffees would be doing their rivals something of a favour if they can send Leeds down, in turn, putting Raphinha on the market for a measly £25m.
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