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Raphinha puts Leeds United contract talks on hold amid Chelsea interest


 

Leeds United star Raphinha has put talks over a new contract with the Yorkshire outfit on hold as he awaits offers from bigger clubs, according to Goal.

The Brazilian has been a sole shining light for Leeds this campaign, providing 8 goals and 2 assists in 21 appearances for Marcelo Bielsa's undermanned side.

But, signed in the summer of 2020, he will have just two years left to run on his contract at Elland Road come the summer, and has caught the eye of several in Europe's top circles.

Chelsea, Liverpool, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid have all been linked with the gifted Selecao international, and it seems unlikely that he will be remaining at Leeds United for too much longer based on recent performances.

As a result, a move could be on the cards this summer, when his value to Bielsa's side is highest.

A perfect fit for Chelsea?

On first glance, Chelsea seems like the perfect destination for the Brazilian. Liverpool have already added Luis Diaz to their ranks, and are in the process of trying to renew the contracts of both Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah.

Meanwhile, Bayern Munich can call upon Serge Gnabry, Kingsley Coman and Leroy Sane, while Real Madrid already have Vinicius Junior and are heavy favourites to land Kylian Mbappe on a free transfer this summer.

This leaves Chelsea with a potentially golden opportunity. Hakim Ziyech, Christian Pulisic and Timo Werner have all flattered to deceive since making big-money moves to Stamford Bridge, while academy graduate Callum Hudson-Odoi is yet to live up to the lofty expectations fans have for him.

A Premier League-proven talent could well buck the trend of disappointment.

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Ben Browning

Ben Browning

Football writer and analyst. Long-time writer of all things Arsenal and avid watcher of European football. Happy to discuss all things football over on Twitter.


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