Reports claim Raphinha has stalled on signing a new Leeds contract amid interest in his services, but Phil Hay states that talks are still “live”. Speaking on his podcast, Hay also says Raphinha is happy with the wages on offer.
Raphinha, 25, has starred for Leeds since joining the club from Rennes for a bargain fee of £17million in the summer of 2020. Now a Brazil international, he has had a hand in 25 goal involvements in 53 games.
With his contract ending in 2024, there has been interest in Raphinha. West Ham tried in January, while the likes of Liverpool and Chelsea are supposedly keen. Leeds have been interested in extending his contract.
But GOAL now report that talks over a deal has stalled. Hay gave more information on Raphinha’s current contract situation – stating talks remain “live”. He says Raphinha is happy with the wage, but he might be stalling.
Indeed, Raphinha was taken off against Everton and he looked frustrated. It might be agent talk, it might be a coincidence, but the frustration of being subbed and talks stalling might hold weight. Hay gave an update.
“The contract talks are still live, but he hasn’t signed one,” Hay told his podcast with The Athletic. “Two or three weeks ago, there was a lot of confidence he would sign.
“A deal would have to include a release clause. From what I understand, he was happy with the wage. He wasn’t happy on Saturday, and his form has been patchy since the win over West Ham.”
Hay on Raphinha: Leeds star should still sign new contract
It benefits all involved, even if Raphinha wants to go in the summer. He is not one of the highest earners at Leeds – given he only joined the club for £17million. It would see him earn more between now, and the summer.
But what Raphinha and his agent, Portuguese legend Deco, would surely request is a big release clause in his contract. That would allow clubs to buy him. Leeds might want a fee in the region of £60million for him.
It would also benefit Leeds as it strengthens their position in terms of keeping him, and clubs trying to negotiate a fee. It makes things smoother and all parties benefit from it.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
