Blistering as Leeds United’s start to the transfer window has been, the replacement strategy for Raphinha and Kalvin Phillips always felt like the backbone of this summer. With the latter’s Manchester City exit expected next week, we are about to see the next phase of Victor Orta’s grand plan.
Going into the summer, before the champions’ interest in Phillips came to the fore, Raphinha felt like the most likely of the two to move on in this window. With the England international now likely to be the first, it’s hard to suddenly feel the Brazilian is going to stay put.
Arsenal may flutter their eyelashes, but it’s plain to see all parties are effectively waiting for Barcelona to wake from their slumber and get this Raphinha deal done. If Barca, or another suitor, stumps up the cash needed, Leeds should feel an influx of more than £100m once you take into account the Phillips fee.
