Phil Hay has admitted that Leeds United star Raphinha could attract bids from clubs, but said that an exit in the January transfer window would be a surprise.
The Lowdown: Raphinha shines yet again
Marcelo Bielsa's side picked up a massive 2-1 win away to Norwich City on Sunday afternoon, climbing to 17th place in the Premier League. It was Raphinha who again stood out for Leeds, scoring the opening goal and receiving a seven-out-of-10 rating from Leeds Live's Beren Cross. SofaScore went one better, giving him an 8.0 rating, by far the highest of anyone to feature at Carrow Road.
The 24-year-old has been a wonderful signing but his form has inevitably seen him linked with a move away from Elland Road in the near future, with Liverpool among those interested.
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The Latest: Hay answers Raphinha query
Speaking in a Q&A for The Athletic after Sunday's match, Hay gave a telling update regarding Raphinha's future, admitting there is sure to be interest in the Brazil international.
When asked by a Leeds supporter how long the club would likely be able to keep hold of the 24-year-old, the journalist replied: "Very hard to say. He’s bound to attract bids. All a case of what they are and when they arrive. Needless to say, no way in the world that Leeds would want to lose him in January."
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The Verdict: Raphinha exit seems probable
Raphinha is a wonderful footballer and has excelled for Leeds, scoring 10 goals and registering nine assists in 40 appearances for the Whites. His reputation is growing rapidly, however, especially after a flying start to his Brazil career, and it would be no surprise if he seeks a fresh challenge soon.
As Hay has said, a January exit would come as a shock, not to mention a big blow midway through a season which is already proving difficult for Leeds, but it is easy to see him moving on next summer, potentially wanting the challenge of playing in the Champions League. The Elland Road faithful should enjoy Raphinha while they can.
In other news, one pundit has commented on Leeds' potential January transfer business. Read more here.