Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has heaped praise on Leeds United winger Raphinha. The Brazil international is currently the Whites' top scorer this season with nine goals in 28 appearances.
He has impressed at Elland Road since making the move from Rennes in October 2020, directly contributing to 27 goals in total and his form helped Leeds to a ninth-place finish last term. Although the Whites are fighting against relegation this season, Raphinha has still scored some vital goals in their pursuit of survival.
Barcelona and Liverpool have been linked with a move for Raphinha in the summer given the levels he has produced for both club and country. When asked about the 25-year-old, Ferdinand believes that if he joins a 'better' team then he will only improve.
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He told his YouTube channel: "Yeah, I like him, I like Raphinha, I like the way he plays. I think he had a spell in the season where he was the most decisive player at Leeds.
"If he went to a better team he would go up a level again, I think there’s more to come from him. He will be an interesting player, especially at that valuation, £25m in today’s market, that’s a very good price for someone like him."
Having also contributed with three goals and two assists for Brazil during seven World Cup qualifiers, Raphinha has proven his ability at the highest stage. Although he has been linked with a move elsewhere, the Whites remain confident they can tie their star man down to a new deal.
Raphinha still has over two years still left on his current deal, but it is understood that Leeds want to extend his stay and make him their highest earner in the process. The Yorkshire Evening Post are adamant that Leeds remain hopeful of securing a new contract for him before the summer.
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