Liverpool may have missed out on the opportunity to sign Leeds United winger Raphinha, with Barcelona reportedly having made the first move.
What’s the story?
According to an update from Sport, it’s claimed that the Brazilian is willing to commit to a five-year deal with the Spanish giants, should they be able to reach an agreement with the Premier League club.
Despite the Reds’ interest and with a formal approach yet to be made, it’s stated that the 25-year-old has already ‘given his word’ to the Catalan hierarchy and ‘prioritises’ the project that is led by manager Xavi Hernandez, with Barca currently leading the race for his signature.
Possible Salah replacement
With Mohamed Salah’s contract talks still ongoing and the possibility of him leaving Anfield becoming increasingly likely, Raphinha could prove to be the ideal replacement for the Egyptian and be exactly what Liverpool are looking for.
Having once been described as a ‘’magician’’ by teammate Dan James, the seven-time international has provided 12 goal contributions in just 27 league appearances for the Whites this season and despite this being some way off Salah’s return (20 goals in 27 outings), he has been the star of a struggling Jesse Marsch side so just think about how much he could flourish under the guidance of someone like Jurgen Klopp.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, former Arsenal striker Kevin Campbell said that the £63k-per-week ace would have to ‘’earn his stripes’’ but thinks that teams should jump at the chance to buy him.
He said ‘’If he is available this summer, I think he’d be wanted by a huge amount clubs, in England and abroad. He’s a top player.’’
Elsewhere, he’s been described as a “match-winner” by The Athletic’s Phil Hay – the sort of term that has become synonymous with the Reds’ right-wing sensation.
It’s no wonder that the Merseyside outfit have identified Raphinha as a potential alternative for Salah on that right side of the pitch and even though he’s currently valued at £36m by Transfermarkt, this fee could be lowered should Leeds get relegated and therefore, could well be a deal worth considering.
AND other news, a long-term Liverpool servant has recently been linked with an exit in the summer. Read more here.
