• News

Raphinha acknowledges Liverpool and Man Utd transfer talks

Raphinha - Leeds United
Getty Images
Advertisement

The Brazilian is tipped to take on a bigger challenge and leave Ellan Road after a memorable debut season in the Premier League.

Raphinha “doesn’t even think about leaving” Leeds United despite reported interest from Liverpool and Manchester United.

Amassing 59 points, Leeds managed to finish in ninth place in the Premier League table in their first season in the English top-flight since 2003–04.

Raphinha’s six goals and nine assists were crucial to Leeds’ top-half finish, and the winger’s garnered attention from the league’s big boys due to his exploits. Liverpool and Manchester United are said to be keen on the former Rennes man, with both clubs in the market to bolster their attacking ranks.

The 24-year-old Brazilian, though, is intent on honoring the full length of his Leeds contract, which runs through to the summer of 2024.

“It is difficult to define how I feel when I hear speculation about giant teams like Liverpool and Manchester United interested in signing me,” Raphinha told UOL Esporte.

“I grew up watching these teams on television. I saw Rooney, Van Nistelrooy, Cristiano Ronaldo, but I also saw Gerrard, as well as others like Henry, Deco, Lampard.

“There are many players of such quality that it is difficult to say if I have mirrored one of them. I think I mirrored the championship, you know? I loved watching and dreamed of playing here. And today I’m making people happy with my football.

“I am not only talking about the other clubs, but also Leeds, who was the one who bet on me. They are all very happy, including the fans who seem to have a great affection for me. I have a contract for another four years and I don’t even think about leaving here exactly because of that: I’m happy and making others happy.”

x