Leeds United have reportedly ruled out the January sale of Raphinha and plan to hold talks with the winger over a new contract, despite interest from a host of Europe’s elite clubs.
The 25-year-old has been a standout performer in Marcelo Bielsa‘s struggling Whites side this season, scoring eight goals in 17 Premier League appearances.
Jurgen Klopp‘s Liverpool and perennial Bundesliga winners Bayern Munich are two clubs who have been strongly linked with Raphinha, while Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea have also been credited with an interest.
However, The Mirror reports that Leeds are keen to reward the Brazil international with a new and improved contract, with his current deal set to expire in June 2024.
The report adds that director of football Victor Orta held two positive meetings with the player’s agent, former Chelsea midfielder Deco, before Christmas regarding a contract extension.
In addition, Raphinha is settled in West Yorkshire and he is planning to marry his partner in England after the pair announced their engagement on New Year’s Eve.
Raphinha has scored 14 goals and provided 10 assists in 48 appearances for Leeds across all competitions since joining the club from Rennes in the summer of 2020.
