Spanish newspaper SPORT claim Raphinha will return to Leeds on July 12 after his participation with the Brazil National Team in Asia – but he will be training alone, with Leeds flying out to Australia this weekend.
Raphinha, 25, remains a target for Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Barcelona – with a price tag of £65million set. The Athletic say Mikel Arteta, Thomas Tuchel and Barca are keen, while SPORT re-state Liverpool’s interest.
In the meantime, Leeds have brought in Colombia star Luis Sinisterra for a fee that is likely to be in the region of £25million. The winger, who was excellent for Feyenoord last season, has put pen to paper on a deal until 2027.
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Sinisterra, who clocked up 37 goal involvements last season, is seen as a direct replacement for Raphinha. Now, SPORT report Raphinha will not be part of the Leeds side that travels to Australia – but will return on July 12.
Raphinha will return to Leeds on July 12: training alone
With Sinisterra now onboard, Raphinha is looking more and more likely that his future will not be in Yorkshire. But the player wants a move to Barcelona – but the Spanish giants may struggle to afford him.
Indeed, their priority is signing Robert Lewandowski and have made an offer. But after bringing in the Bayern star, will they have the cash to sign Raphinha? Leeds will only sell if the majority of the fee is up front.
It might be that Raphinha has to accept a move to one of the Premier League clubs interested – or remain at Leeds. The latter would see him continue to play regularly ahead of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
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