Raphinha’s ‘head turned’ by Liverpool after source’s reveal today – pundit
Alex McLeish has suggested Raphinha’s head has been turned by interest from Liverpool despite insisting he is happy at Leeds United.
The former Scotland manager, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, admitted the lure of working with the Reds’ stars could prove too tempting if the Merseyside giants do come calling.
Speaking to Spanish publication AS (16th November), Raphinha insisted he is “very happy at Leeds” and revealed his ambition to play in the Champions League.
Football Insider first revealed Liverpool’s interest in the 24-year-old back in February after he blew their scouts away.
The latest from a Reds source today is the club are making regular checks on Raphinha as well as his teammates Kalvin Phillips and Illan Meslier.
Speaking to Globo Esporte (14th October), the Leeds star’s agent Deco confirmed Liverpool made informal approaches over a move.
However, he revealed there was “nothing official”.
Despite Raphinha stating his happiness at Leeds, McLeish admitted a move to Anfield could tempt the winger away.
“Leeds United back in the day were European Cup finalists. They were a really strong team many, many years ago,” McLeish told Football Insider’s Russell Edge.
“Liverpool are historically bigger and you would expect Raphinha’s head to be turned if they do come asking about.
“I feel players will want to go to that bigger club. They don’t come much bigger than Liverpool these days.
“Raphinha has got huge talent, only 24. At the same time, you maybe don’t see him playing regularly every single week (at Liverpool).
“That’s something the individual has to assess.”
Raphinha has played 41 times for Leeds to date.
He also has five caps for Brazil under his belt.
In other news, Billy Gilmour told to sign for Leeds United by pundit after Tuchel reveal pre-January.