Here are the latest Leeds United evening headlines on Friday, 8 July 2022.
Raphinha conclusion imminent
A conclusion to the saga involving Leeds United winger Raphinha looks set to draw to a close in the coming days with Barcelona now in advanced talks. That is according to journalist Ben Jacobs, who claims that while no agreement has yet been reached, Barcelona’s offer now matches that of Chelsea, though the base fee is less.
Chelsea had a bid of around £65 million accepted by Leeds last week but no progress has yet been made from Raphinha’s point of view as he holds out for his dream Barcelona move. Leeds have told Barcelona to act quickly in order to avoid the saga dragging on even deeper into the window, as they look to put the funds towards a new striker.
Raphinha reportedly remains open to a move to Chelsea if Barcelona either fail to agree a deal or drag it on much longer. Jacobs says that the next 24 to 48 hours will be crucial to deciding where the Brazilian is playing his football next season.
READ MORE: Luis Sinisterra's first words after joining Leeds United as he makes promise to supporters
Marsch on Phillips
Champions League trophies have thus far evaded Manchester City, but Jesse Marsch’s first text message to Kalvin Phillips prophecised the end of that wait. The Leeds United head coach was so genuinely happy for the midfielder’s move his first thought was for the trophies he will now go on to lift.
The Whites confirmed the England international’s exit on Monday with the champions taking Phillips to Etihad Stadium. Marsch is not in the business of welcoming the loss of his best players, but his relationship with the 26-year-old meant he could only be happy for his former colleague.
He said: “First with Kalvin : man, what a great guy. I enjoyed him so much, having him here. We talked a lot about what it would be like if he stayed and how to help him continue to be the best player he could be.”
He added: “I feel like it’s not easy to say goodbye because he’s so good, but if you love people you want the best for them, in their life and in their career. Leeds fans should be really proud of everything he’s meant to the club and we should all be fans of him and want to see him [succeed].
“The first text I sent to him was ‘I can’t wait to see you lift the Champions League trophy.’ That’s how I feel about Kalvin and I wish nothing but the best for him.”
Read more here.
Shackleton set for Millwall
Leeds United midfielder Jamie Shackleton is reportedly set to join up with Charlie Cresswell and sign a season-long-loan deal with Millwall. That is according to Football Insider, who claim that an agreement has been struck between the two clubs and the finishing touches are now being put on the deal.
Cresswell completed his move to the Lions on Monday and is set to be joined by his fellow Leeds academy graduate at the Den, despite having been linked strongly with Reading. Shackleton featured in last night’s 4-0 friendly win over Blackpool but has now been given the green light to complete his loan switch after finding regular game time hard to come by in the last two seasons.
Read more here.
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