Leeds United ‘asking for £50m’ for Raphinha after Sky update – Mills
Danny Mills has suggested Raphinha could force a move to Barcelona even if Leeds United stand firm this summer.
The former Whites defender, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 25-year-old would fetch a transfer fee in excess of £50million.
According to Sky Sports (24 March), Barcelona are among the clubs that want to sign Raphinha this summer – with the Catalans hoping their relationship with Deco, the winger’s agent, will pay dividends.
The report claims talks are ongoing between the Brazillian and Leeds United regarding a new contract – but nothing has been agreed as of yet.
Raphinha, who is currently contracted until 2024, has netted nine goals for the Whites this term.
When asked if Leeds would be willing to part with their star man, Mills told Football Insider‘s Connor Whitley: “It all comes down to how big the offer is.
“He’s still got two years left on his contract. They’d be within their rights to say: ‘No, you’re going nowhere. We’d like you to stay.‘
“But we all know that things go on in the background if a player is desperate for a move. We don’t always see these things, but they do happen.
“I guess from Leeds’ point of view, they’ve improved him into a proven player, a much better talent.
“They’ll be asking for £50m-plus. It’s as simple as that.”
A potential replacement for Raphinha could be Rangers winger Ryan Kent, who has had long-term admirers at Elland Road.
A Whites source has told Football Insider that Kent remains on the club’s radar despite the departure of Marcelo Bielsa last month.
In other news, medical expert predicts a “total overhaul” at Leeds United after Patrick Bamford latest.