Liverpool have sensationally been warned against signing Leeds star Raphinha despite the Brazilian’s excellent Premier League form. The 24-year-old is highly sought after but Leeds have so far been able to keep their prized asset.
Liverpool have been warned about completing a Raphinha transfer (Image: GETTY)
Mohamed Salah often occupies the right-wing position in which Raphinha plays for Leeds.
Ferdinand therefore wonders if the player would start frequently at Anfield.
“The only problem I think with something like Raphinha going to Liverpool is just where he’s going to play? He’s not going to start,” the ex-England defender said on his YouTube channel, Five.
“So, £60 million not to start is a big, big fee. And for him as a player, I’m sure he’ll have more options. It’s a great club, don’t get me wrong, going to be fighting on all fronts to win things.
Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
“That question won’t be answered in a positive way for him: will I start a lot of games? If Salah stays and signs a new contract, it puts a dampener on his ability to play.”
Raphinha’s agent Deco has hit out at reports that his client could be available for as little as £26.9m.
“I think today he’s worth more than €32m (£26.9m). What will determine the price is the level of the club that signs him,” Deco told UOL.
“If it’s Manchester United, City, Liverpool, Chelsea, the price could reach around €60m (£50.6m). What determines the price of a player is the market he hits.”
Meanwhile Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has implied that the Reds will not be busy in the January transfer window.
Liverpool ace Mohamed Salah occupies Raphinha's preferred right-wing position at Anfield (Image: GETTY)
The German revealed that back-up winger Takumi Minamino will earn more game time following his goal against Arsenal last weekend.
That will likely rule out a transfer for another forward.
“We’re so happy, everybody was so happy for him (Minamino) that he scored the goal. The way he played today reflects how well he is training at the moment.