Here are your Leeds United evening headlines for Saturday, July 16.
Deco waived fee in Raphinha deal
Raphinha’s agent, former Portugal midfielder Deco, reportedly waived his agency fee in a final bid to convince Leeds to sell the Brazilian to Barcelona, according to the Athletic , in a decision that could have saved the Whites a ‘seven-figure sum’.
He and Raphinha both made clear their desire for a deal with the Spanish club, but their consistent failure to match Chelsea’s £60million bid frustrated those in charge at Elland Road. A deal was agreed with Barcelona during the week, believed to be £55million, but it is thought that Deco’s decision will have saved Leeds significant money.
The deal also includes an interesting penalty clause, which states that Barcelona would have to pay Leeds a €10million if they fail to meet any of the payment dates.
READ MORE: Leeds United transfer news LIVE: Raphinha's move to Barcelona, De Ketelaere and Kalimuendo latest
Young stars growing influence
Darko Gyabi’s second-half performance on Thursday was the shining light in an otherwise lacklustre 45 minutes. The 18-year-old oozed calm and composure, dropping deep to dictate play and holding his nerve in tight spaces.
Marsch spoke of his excitement at having the teenager, who becomes the latest in a core group of outstanding young talents at Elland Road. He, along with the likes of Joe Gelhardt, Sam Greenwood and Crysencio Summerville are ready for the step up to senior football.
All have been regularly involved in pre-season and, with five substitutes introduced next year, all are likely to have a significant influence on the 2022/2023 Premier League campaign.
Read the full story here.
Saturday training Down Under
Leeds hosted another open training session at the Suncorp Stadium on Saturday, with around 1,000 fans in attendance. Whites boss Jesse Marsch spoke to the crowd beforehand, thanking them for their support and detailing the session plans.
There was plenty to take from the session, from full-back hints to Patrick Bamford’s management after a long spell on the sidelines - there was even an impromptu crossbar challenge from Leif Davis and Mateusz Klich.
LeedsLive’s Will Jackson was in attendance, and has everything you need to know right here.
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