Borussia Dortmund have been credited with an interest in Leeds star Raphinha, according to Eurosport.
The Lowdown: Raphinha’s impressive season
It’s safe to say now that the Whites struck gold with their £17m move for the Brazilian back in October.
Leeds sealed a deal on deadline day, and Raphinha was one of the standout performers under Marcelo Bielsa in an impressive first season back in the Premier League.
The 24-year-old scored six times and registered six assists in 30 league appearances, ending the campaign as Leeds’ best-rated performer, as per WhoScored.
It appears that his displays have caught the eye abroad, with the summer transfer window set to open over the next few weeks.
The Latest: Dortmund’s interest
According to Eurosport, German giants Dortmund have made tentative enquiries to sign Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi as they seek replacements in case Jadon Sancho departs.
The report adds that the former Champions League winners could explore deals for Lille’s Jonathan Ikone and Raphinha as alternatives.
Raphinha, who former Elland Road man Noel Whelan described as ‘sensational’, is under contract at Elland Road until 2024.
The Verdict: Whites should be under no pressure to sell
In our opinion, unless a mega-money offer comes in from Dortmund, the Whites should dismiss all interest in the winger.
Only five players in the Premier League registered more assists than the Brazilian last season. He started just 26 league games, so that tally could have been a lot more if he signed prior to the start of the campaign.
Leeds will be looking to improve on their 9th place finish next year, and to do that, you’d expect keeping hold of their prized assets will be crucial.
It just goes to show the impact he’s had in Yorkshire for Dortmund to show an interest, but hopefully, a deal won’t materialise.
In other news: Whites boosted in hopes of signing Emi Buendia, find out more here.