Raphinha: West Ham given ‘encouragement’ over ‘£50m+’ deal after Marcelo Bielsa reveal – pundit
Raphinha’s omission from the Leeds United starting XI will have given West Ham “encouragement” over a potential summer move, according to Paul Robinson.
However, the ex-Leeds and Tottenham goalkeeper, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suspects a transfer to the London Stadium would only materialise if Marcelo Bielsa’s side were relegated.
Raphinha dropped to the bench on Sunday as Leeds were beaten 4-2 by Manchester United at Elland Road.
As quoted by Leeds Live (20 February), Bielsa revealed the decision not to start the Brazil international was made on tactical grounds.
West Ham failed in a £50million approach to sign Raphinha in the January transfer window.
The winger’s contract at Elland Road runs until the summer of 2024.
When asked by Football Insider for his reaction to Bielsa’s team selection, Robinson said: “It will have given potential suitors encouragement.
“I cannot see Raphinha and West Ham being a fit though. It was a very optimistic move from them last month.
“If they want to compete for the top four regularly, Raphinha is the type of player they want to look at. But it will cost them a lot more than £50million, of that I’m sure.
“If you are Raphinha, I presume you will have a lot more attractive propositions than West Ham. If Leeds are to be relegated it will open the door for the top half of the Premier League, not just the top four.”
In other news, an ex-manager has told West Ham to agree a deal before it’s too late as talks underway.