Leeds United news: Raphinha tipped to quit for ‘big club’ after contract talks update
Kevin Phillips has insisted a new contract will not stop a “big club” from poaching Raphinha from Leeds United.
The former Sunderland striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested a new deal would be a “great gesture” but would not protect the Whites from losing their star winger.
Football Insider revealed on Thursday (3 February) that Raphinha, 25, is close to agreeing a new and improved contract at Elland Road after talks between his agent and the club.
The Whites are aware Raphinha’s value will start to fall this summer as he heads into the final two years of his current contract.
However, Phillips admitted a new deal will do little to keep his suitors at bay.
Discussing a potential new deal for Raphinha, Phillips told Football Insider’s Dylan Childs: “I think it makes no difference.
“Whether you put a player on a new contract or not, if a big club comes in they generally get the player.
“It’s a great gesture. It’s all they can do really, show the ambition to say: ‘We’re offering a good deal to these players. We want them to stay.’
“Ultimately it’s the player’s decision and I think new deals, nowadays, don’t really make a big deal of difference.”
Raphinha’s current contract runs until the summer of 2024.
He joined for £17million but his value has tripled thanks to his sensational form in the Premier League.
In other news, Leeds United have been tipped to accept a “£70m” bid for Kalvin Phillips after failed West Ham pursuit.