Joe Cole expects plenty of suitors for Leeds United star Raphinha, too good for league position
Raphinha will be top of many clubs’ shopping list in the summer because the Leeds United star is the best player in the relegation battle, says Joe Cole.
The Brazilian attacker has been in great form this season in what has been a difficult year for the club, although he under-performed in the 3-3 draw at Aston Villa last night.
Former Chelsea midfielder Cole believes the 25-year-old is a “proper talent” and that the top teams in the league will want to sign him.
The Express reported this week that Liverpool have a “genuine interest” despite signing Luis Diaz, while The Sun report that Chelsea, Manchester United, and West Ham are “circling”.
Cole said on BT Sport before the Villa draw, via Leeds Live: “I think this lad is as good a player out of any of the bottom six teams. I think he’s probably the most talented and there’ll be plenty of suitors for him.
“He’s come to the Premier League, he’s scored goals, assists, involvements – he’s a real technician. He’s a real pleasure to watch.”
Sad truth
Despite the rare off-night on Wednesday it is undeniable that the former Rennes attacker is one of the Whites’ key performers.
In the absence of other prominent figures such as Kalvin Phillips and Patrick Bamford he has stood out even more, scoring eight times so far this season.
But what will be especially frustrating for United fans is the thought of their injury woes contributing to losing a star player.
If Marcelo Bielsa had been able to draw on a full squad this season he may have been able to replicate the impressive performance of last year.
The Elland Road club finished ninth in the Premier League in their first year back, shocking some big names along the way.
Mid-table, or maybe even higher, with Leeds would perhaps have represented a more fitting place for a player with such talent, and then it would not appear so inevitable that other clubs would come calling.
If it is to happen in the summer, it is sure to cost one of them far more than the reported £50million West Ham bid for him in January (90min).
In other Leeds United news, Phil Hay hailed the “best game yet” for one player in the 3-3 draw.