Leeds United head coach Jesse Marsch hopes that Raphinha will remain at the club beyond this season.
In recent weeks, news has broken that the Brazilian winger is considering a move to Barcelona.
Leeds United Head Coach Jesse Marsch Full Of Praise For Raphinha
Jesse Marsch Focusing on the Football
Since joining the club, Marsch has been impressed by Raphinha. The former Sporting Lisbon man has been the stand-out player for Leeds this season.
Marsch was speaking at a press conference today ahead of Leeds’ game against Southampton on Saturday he said, as quoted by Leeds Live: “He [Raphinha] was incredible in the 45-minute test match we had. He is a massive talent.
“My challenge is, despite all of the talk outside, to have the relationship where we can focus on his development in helping the team while he is here. I haven’t had a word with him about Deco or Barcelona.
“It should be out there because he is fantastic. Just want him to become the player I know he can be. Everyone here wants to enjoy the football.
“Of course we want him to stay as long as possible. Fantastic player and very good person.”
Raphinha joined Leeds in 2020 from Ligue 1 side Rennes. Since joining the Whites, the Brazil international has made 59 appearances, scoring 15 goals and assisting 12 in the process.
The 25-year-old also broke into the Brazil team in October 2021. Since his debut, he has played seven games, scoring three goals. If he can continue with his current form, it is highly likely he will be called up for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Barcelona Getting Business Done Early
As Barcelona continue to rebuild, it looks like the club wants to get their transfer business wrapped up early.
Earlier this week, Barcelona president Joan Laporta already confirmed two signings.
Speaking to RAC1, Laporta said: “We’ve completed two signings for the next season: one is a midfielder, the other one is a centre-back. But I’m not allowed to mention their names”.
It is heavily reported that these two signings are Chelsea defender Andreas Christensen and AC Milan midfielder Franck Kessie.
Laporta also showed his admiration for Raphinha, he told RAC1: “Raphinha is a player we really like and it’s true that Deco’s his agent. We’ve very good relationships”.
It is clear to see Barcelona are interested in bringing in the Brazilian. With the World Cup coming up at the end of the year, Raphinha may feel a big move before the tournament may benefit his career.
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