Joe Cole says Leeds have a ‘talented’ player that is a ‘real pleasure to watch’

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Joe Cole has told BT Sport – as per Leeds Live – that Leeds United have a player in Raphinha that is one of the best outside of the current top-six sides. The Brazilian was not at his best on Wednesday night against Villa.

Raphinha, 25, has been on fire for Leeds this season – his form earning a call-up to Brazil, where he has netted three goals in seven caps. For Leeds, he has eight goals and two assists in 10 Premier League matches.

On Wednesday night, having returned from international duty, he was far from his best. Indeed, the likes of Dan James and Rodrigo outshone the ex-Rennes wide man. But that did not stop praise coming the way of Raphinha.

Indeed, Cole was full of praise. The West Ham icon spoke about the winger – who was linked with the Hammers in January – saying plenty of suitors are likely to come his way. He also labelled Raphinha as a “pleasure to watch”.

“He’s come to the Premier League, he’s scored goals, assists, involvements – he’s a real technician. He’s a real pleasure to watch,” Cole said. “I think this lad is as good a player out of any of the bottom six teams.

“He’s probably the most talented and there’ll be plenty of suitors for him. There won’t be another player from the bottom six or seven teams more sought after. In a team in the top eight, his levels will go up even more.”

Cole on Raphinha: What are the chances Leeds keep him in summer?

Leeds probably knew that Raphinha saw the Whites as a springboard to other clubs, when they landed the Brazilian in 2020. They probably knew, that Raphinha and his agent Deco saw the Premier League as a stage.

After two seasons, Raphinha has huge interest in his services. While West Ham is hardly viewed as the move he might have hoped for, bigger clubs will be interested in the summer. Leeds will only sell for the right price.

But Andrea Radrizzani has spoken in the past of modelling Leeds on Leicester. Cashing in on their bigger stars at high price, and spending the returns on two or three potential Raphinha duplicates. A move is likely.