Former England international David James has delivered his own verdict on the future of Leeds United winger Raphinha, amid the ongoing transfer speculation surrounding him. The 25-year-old has been reported to be of interest for a whole host of European clubs over recent weeks, with Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Liverpool said to be interested.
With his current deal at Elland Road not set to expire until the summer of 2024, the Brazilian international is currently still recovering from a recent bout of Covid-19, ruling him out of linking up with Seleção for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers. Joining from Ligue 1 side Rennes back in 2020, Raphinha has found the net 15 net times in 59 appearances as well as registering 12 assists for the Whites.
James has spoken out on the speculation surrounding his future, comparing the Leeds man to recent Liverpool signing Luis Diaz given the Reds reported interest in him.
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“I like Raphinha… The one thing that sort of concerns me about him already being linked to Liverpool is that usually you don't know who Liverpool are going to sign until they sign,'' the 51-year-old, told GGRecon.
“I like him but again, when you look at Luis Díaz, who is a sensational signing, is Raphinha as good as him? I don't think so at the moment.
"It's whether he can be better than that. I think with Díaz you already had a superstar who came in and continued to be a superstar. Raphinha is a slightly different model I would argue.”
