Liverpool are monitoring the progress of Leeds United attacking midfielder Raphinha, a report claims.
Raphinha has looked like a shrewd signing since joining Leeds from Rennes in the summer. The Brazilian has four goals and four assists in the Premier League so far, from 16 appearances.
He marked his most recent appearance with a goal against Everton, and provided assists in each of the two games before that.
The fee of £17m Leeds spent to sign him already looks like money well spent. However, if his current rate of progress continues, they might not be able to keep hold of him for much longer.
According to Football Insider, Premier League champions Liverpool are watching how Raphinha is developing.
Liverpool are considering strengthening their attack in the summer. They added depth in defence in the January transfer window, but could still do with some options further up the field.
Raphinha is one of the names on their shortlist, it is claimed, and they have sent scouts to watch him.
Those scouts have been impressed with what they have seen from Raphinha so far. In fact, the report claims the winger has “blown away” those watching him on Liverpool’s behalf.
However, Football Insider speculate that Liverpool could face competition from other Premier League teams.
Raphinha has thrived on the right-hand side of Leeds’ attack, meaning he could provide cover for Mohamed Salah if he was to move to Liverpool.
However, it is not yet clear if the champions will actually make a bid. It seems they will continue scouting him for now.
Salah on his way out?
Liverpool’s interest in Raphinha may be a sign that they are preparing for the departure of Salah.
The Egypt forward remains an integral part of their side, but his contract is not currently a priority.
Therefore, Salah may end up having to be sold – even though he wants to stay at Anfield for as long as possible.
Saturday’s papers suggested a chain of events which could lead to Salah leaving and Kylian Mbappe eventually arriving.
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