Liverpool and Chelsea have been handed a boost in their transfer chase for Raphinha after the winger reportedly snubbed contract talks with Leeds United. The Brazilian has starred for the Whites since arriving at Elland Road from Rennes ahead of last season.
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
Leeds are struggling to convince Raphinha to sign a new deal (Image: Express Sport)
Leeds approached him twice in January as they attempted to kickstart talks, but Raphinha snubbed them both times, ‘not responding’ to them on either occasion.
The Whites are ready to offer him a significant pay rise in an effort to keep him in Yorkshire, which they believe will be enough to convince him to stay.
But though it is stated the Premier League side remain ‘hopeful’ of seeing that plan work, Raphinha himself wants to explore his options.
In a huge boost to Liverpool and Chelsea, it is stated that his ‘preference’ is to remain in the Premier League with a club challenging for silverware.
Raphinha has been Leeds' best player this season (Image: Getty Images)
Bielsa has previously expressed his delight that Leeds are looking to hand Raphinha a bumper contract and made it clear why Europe’s top clubs are so keen to sign him.
“Raphinha is the best player in the team in all the senses, physically he's the best, technically he's at the level of the best and the interpretation he has of the game is very good, very wise,” he said in January.
“[He is] within the group of such a powerful nation of Brazil, he shines in the Premier League and he has the attention of all the big clubs in the world.
“All of those things is something you guys (journalists) know just as much as me, nothing I'm saying is new. As a result, the decision of the club can only be valued.”