Raphinha turns down Leeds United deal, makes release clause demand
Raphinha has reportedly turned down an extension at Leeds United given the interest from Liverpool, Bayern Munich and Barcelona.
According to UOL journalist Bruno Andrade, the Brazilian wants Leeds to lower his release clause which is currently at £70million.
The 25-year-old has been one of the Whites' best players since his move to Elland Road last summer.
Via his Twitter handle, Andrade wrote, "Raphinha turned down Leeds' first offer to renew - the current contract lasts until 2024. To sign a new contract, the striker wants a reduction in the release clause, currently set at 70 million pounds. Barcelona, Bayern and Liverpool are eyeing the Brazilian."
Goodness
Raphinha signing a new deal with a lower release clause means he could look to leave in the summer.
At this point, Leeds need to decide what they want.
Another year with Raphinha could be beneficial but his resale value comes down considerable.
If £70million is too high then maybe they could look to bring it down to around £55million.
It makes no sense to keep an unhappy player at the club and if the Brazilian is asking to leave, he probably is not content.
Marcelo Bielsa's exit could have helped him make up his mind and it seems like his future lies elsewhere post this summer.
It remains to be seen how Victor Orta and the rest of the club hierarchy react to this situation.