Leeds United news: Jack Grealish cited in £42.4m-plus transfer claim as offer reported – expert
Alex McLeish has insisted Leeds United could get more than £42.4million should they choose to sell Raphinha this summer.
The former Scotland manager, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the 24-year-old is a “mercurial” talent like Jack Grealish and should demand a big-money fee.
As reported by Spanish publication Sport (29 March), Barcelona are readying a second bid worth a total of around £42.4million (€50million) for Raphinha after seeing an initial offer knocked back.
The Catalan giants will reportedly not raise their offer any further as they know the Brazilian has a £25million relegation release clause.
However, McLeish suggested the Whites could hold out for an even higher fee.
Asked if he thought Leeds could demand more for Raphinha, McLeish told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “Yeah.
“When you think of other prices for players that are that kind of matchwinners or can eliminate opponents with one or two movements, you would think, going with current rates, he would be a bit more.
“You think of Jack Grealish at £100million, he’s that kind of player. He’s mercurial and Raphinha is extremely gifted too.
“Raphinha has had games where he’s really impressed. Consistency? I think he’s got that too. He’s also got that experience of some downsides.
“When a player can react to the downsides of games and come back to top form like Raphinha has done, he’s worth his salt.”
Raphinha joined Leeds for a reported £17million from Rennes in 2020.
He has played 59 times for the Whites so far, with 15 goals and 12 assists under his belt.
The winger has also made seven appearances for Brazil since moving to Elland Road.
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