According to The Athletic, Liverpool retain an interest in signing Leeds forward Raphinha, with the future of Mohamed Salah uncertain.
What’s the story?
Well, the report claims that Liverpool’s interest in the £17m Premier League forward is genuine, and has been confirmed by his agent – former Barcelona star Deco.
It is said that the Reds are keeping an eye on the Leeds No.10 as doubts linger over the future of Salah.
The Egypt international’s contract at Anfield expires in June 2023, and he is yet to sign fresh terms with Liverpool.
That leaves Jürgen Klopp in a difficult situation.
If the talks drag out until the summer, Liverpool may have to consider selling their talisman, or they risk losing him for nothing in 2023.
Raphinha wouldn’t come cheap, although he would be a brilliant signing by the Reds – he has shone since arriving in England from Rennes.
Raphinha is the ideal Mohamed Salah replacement for Liverpool
In terms of profile, Raphinha would be a wonderful choice by Liverpool to replace Salah, if the worst case scenario happens.
The Brazil international – like Salah – is left footed, and tends to operate on the right flank where he cuts inside.
Additionally, the pair are both extremely direct, and rarely mess about on the ball when they receive it – they have one thing in mind, and that is to drive forwards.
Raphinha also possesses a fantastic work rate, which he will need if he is to thrive in Klopp’s intense gegenpressing system.
All the signs suggest he would slot in seamlessly at Anfield.
Having said that, don’t expect this deal to be easy – Leeds will surely try their hardest to keep Liverpool away from their main man.
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