Leeds United could have been facing up to a relegation battle if they had allowed Raphinha to leave before the transfer window slammed shut, according to former Whites midfielder David Norris.
Raphinha joined Leeds for a fee in the region of £17million from French outfit Rennes last year.
He went on to enjoy a hugely successful first season at Elland Road, scoring eight goals and registering 11 assists as Leeds enjoyed their maiden campaign back in the Premier League following a 16-year wait.
Was keeping Raphinha Leeds' best piece of business in the window?
Yes
No
Raphinha has also made a promising start to the new term, netting in the stalemate with Everton last month.
The Brazilian’s fine form led to speculation that a host of Premier League rivals were mulling over making a move, with Italian journalist Gianluigi Longari revealing Liverpool were at the front of a queue which also included Manchester City and Manchester United.
But Raphinha ended speculation by admitting he is enjoying life at Leeds and Norris believes the Whites would have been in trouble if the 24-year-old had agitated for a move.
He exclusively told The Transfer Tavern: “It’s huge that he is still at Leeds and that could be the difference in what type of season they have because of the effect he is having and the player he is.
“It’s going to be an interesting season and I have no idea where Leeds are going to end up. I know a few of the fans are happy enough just to stay up.
“If they had lost him, they would definitely have been towards the bottom half of the table.”
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