Liverpool are reportedly preparing to submit a bid for Leeds United forward Raphinha after a sensational debut season in the Premier League.
According to Mercado Ingles, Liverpool are ready to submit a ‘first official offer’ to Leeds United for Raphinha worth €37million (£32million) after he shone in the Premier League this season.
The lightning-quick Brazilian forward scored eight goals and provided 11 assists for the Peacocks this season, helping them to a ninth-place finish in their first season back in the Premier League.
There is little else to Mercado Ingles’ information and Anfield Central hasn’t heard anything about interest in the forward aside from the fact that he is someone that is admired by the Liverpool coaching staff.
LEEDS, ENGLAND – MAY 23: Raphinha of Leeds in action during the Premier League match between Leeds United and West Bromwich Albion at Elland Road on May 23, 2021 in Leeds, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
In my opinion, Raphinha would be an incredible back-up option to Mohamed Salah but his lack of versatility would mean that unless the world-class operator was played as a striker, the Brazilian would be limited to playing as his backup.
I have no insider knowledge of the player but it seems unlikely that he would be attracted to playing fewer minutes after an outstanding season for Leeds in which he played 2300 minutes in the Premier League.
For reference, Diogo Jota played just 1112 minutes in the league but he did miss 21 games through injury so that’s not the best possible reflection on what a backup role might entail for Raphinha.
As a Liverpool fan, I’d prefer to see a versatile striker signed as it gives Jurgen Klopp more options as the season progresses but having said that, I wouldn’t turn my nose up at a player more than capable of making an impact at Anfield.
SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND – MAY 18: Raphinha of Leeds United smiles during the Premier League match between Southampton and Leeds United at St Mary’s Stadium on May 18, 2021 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Robin Jones/Getty Images)
Someone like Donyell Malen, a player that can play on the wing but excels as a centre-forward could be the best option for Liverpool this summer.
He would cost just £25million and although he plays in the Eredivisie, he got 17 goals and 9 assists for PSV Eindhoven this term – a brilliant return from 25 games in all competitions.
