Graham Smyth makes Raphinha Leeds United exit claim this summer

Leeds United attacker Raphinha is expected to leave in the summer despite being in talks over a new deal, according to Graham Smyth.

Writing in his recent Yorkshire Evening Post article, he claimed that the contract is to give him a higher salary and add a couple of years to his deal.

This would protect Leeds in the transfer market and would help them demand a higher fee if any club bids for him this summer.

He wrote, "Raphinha's agent Deco has been in talks with Leeds and while some have questioned why the Brazilian would put pen to paper when a big move could present itself in the summer, it boils down to money.

"Leeds can offer a much better deal than the one he's on currently and by tagging on a year or two, protect themselves in the market.

"Leeds are not a club who could turn down an eye-watering offer for a player, no matter how key they are, so if some European giant comes knocking in the next window with such a bid, Raphinha's sale is likely."

Harsh reality

This is not something Leeds fans would want to be hearing, but it's exactly how the stay of play currently is.

Leeds do not play in the Champions League nor do they have the kind of money like Newcastle or Aston Villa to make such promises.

Maybe after the San Franciso 49ers take over completely things will be a bit more different.

However, these are Raphinha's peak years and he would not want to waste them fighting relegation battles.

He clearly is a Champions League level player and deserves to play against the best names in Europe.

In other Leeds United news, Phil Hay issues a major January update amid recent development that would certainly be exciting for the Elland Road faithful.