Manchester United register their interest in Leeds United’s Raphinha
By Varun Aithal
According to news circulating, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is looking to add more flair to their attack. Reports suggest that Manchester United are interested in acquiring the services of Leeds United attacker, Raphinha.
Since his move from the French outfit, Rennes, Raphinha has been a revelation for Marcelo Bielsa and Leeds United.
The versatile winger has already raked up 22 appearances for Leeds in a short span of time. In 18 starts, the player has five goals and five assists to his name.
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His impactful performances in the top-flight have caught the attention of European giants and the player might be set for a big-money move in the upcoming summer transfer window.
"There could be a tug of war between Liverpool and Manchester United this summer for Leeds United winger Raphinha, according to Sportitalia journalist Gianluigi Longari. Longari believes that there are a long list of clubs keen to secure Raphinha’s signature, but that Premier League sides Liverpool and United lead the way(Via: ESPN)"
Manchester United believe they have the upper hand in Raphinha race
Though the Merseysiders are interested in signing Raphinha, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Manchester United believe that they have an upper hand because of Bruno Fernandes’ connection.
Fernandes and Raphinha played together in Portugal and the club believes that “agent Bruno” can help them lure the player to Old Trafford.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has played Marcus Rashford, Daniel James and Mason Greenwood on the right flank but they haven’t impressed the manager too much, barring Greenwood.
Despite playing out of position, Greenwood has shown a lot of promises from the right flank. However, the Norweigan boss would like to play Greenwood in his natural position as Anthony Martial looks a shadow of himself in the center-forward position.
In this scenario, Raphinha can be a great addition to the Old Trafford outfit. Since his arrival to England, Raphinha is the second-highest scorer for the Whites after Patrick Bamford.
He has also created 46 chances and 59 passes in the final third, which speaks of the player’s capabilities in attack..
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Man United’s priorities could take them out of the Raphinha race. Jadon Sancho will be a priority for Ole but Raphinha could be a great steal for a lower sum.