Transfer Rumour: Liverpool ramp up interest in Raphinha
Liverpool are reportedly ramping up interest in £60million Leeds winger Raphinha
With Sadio Mane set to leave Anfield this summer, Liverpool believes Raphinha could be the ideal replacement.
A report in the Mirror has suggested that backup attacker Takumi Minamino could be the bait to lure the Brazilian to Merseyside.
Jurgen Klopp is a big fan of the speedy 25-year-old attacker who scored 11 Premier League goals and grabbed three assists despite a poor season for Leeds.
Raphinha is also on Barcelona's wanted list. He is currently on international duty with Brazil, fits the bill perfectly for Liverpool's high energy style under Klopp. The Liveropool manager may have an ace up his sleeve in getting this deal done.
Leeds are slowly rebuilding under American coach Jesse Marsch after their narrow relegation escape. They are keen on Minamino who joined Liverpool in a £7.25million deal in January 2020.
The 27-year-old Japanese international was only a squad player last season. He still scored ten goals in 24 games across all competitions to prove a valuable squad member.
It's believed Klopp would be prepared to sacrifice Minamino even though Liverpool have already lost squad striker Divock Origi who has joined Serie A champions AC Milan.
Most media reports looking into story have pointed out Leeds want big money for Raphinha. He cost £17million when he was snapped up by former Elland Road boss Marcelo Bielsa from French side Rennes in October 2020.
He adapted well to the speed, intensity and physical demands of the Premier League. This impressed Klopp and his staff since his arrival in England.
