Leeds United star Raphinha is not expected to leave the club in the January transfer window but could move in the summer, according to journalist Pete O'Rourke.

The Lowdown: Raphinha's future in doubt

The Brazilian has arguably been the Whites' standout player so far this season, scoring eight goals in 17 Premier League appearances and posting by far the highest WhoScored performance rating in Marcelo Bielsa's squad.

Unsurprisingly, constant reports have linked Raphinha with an eventual move away from Elland Road, with the likes of Liverpool tipped to sign him, even though the 25-year-old's current Leeds deal doesn't expire until the summer of 2024.

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The Latest: Journalist provides Raphinha transfer update

Speaking to Give Me Sport, O'Rourke gave an important update on the situation, hinting that a summer exit is on the cards rather than a January move. He outlined:

"I don't think the player is leaving Leeds just yet. But in the summertime, if Leeds don't have the best season and are in the bottom end of the table for most of the season, Raphinha will be thinking that he wants to play at a higher level."

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The Verdict: Summer exit on the cards?

The idea of Raphinha leaving Leeds this month is simply unthinkable, especially with the likes of Kalvin Phillips, Liam Cooper and Patrick Bamford currently sidelined and the Whites looking nervously over their shoulders at the relegation zone.

It would be a huge shock if the Brazil international suddenly departed in the coming weeks, but in truth, it is not difficult to envisage him moving on in the summer.

At that point, Raphinha may feel he has come as far as he can with the Whites, especially if Champions League-playing clubs show genuine interest in him. It would be hard to begrudge him that move either, given how much he has contributed at Elland Road already.

In other news, Leeds are reportedly eyeing up the signing of an attacking player. Find out who it is here.