BBC pundit seriously impressed by Raphinha in Leeds win at Watford

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Jonathan Woodgate told BBC Sport that Raphinha provided a reminder as to why the Leeds United star is attracting so much interest with his outstanding goal in their win over Watford on Saturday.

Leeds are closing in on safety in the Premier League. They won 3-0 at Watford to add to the pressure on the Hornets. And with Burnley losing on Sunday, Jesse Marsch’s men are now edging closer to being fine for another year.

It was not always the most convincing display at Vicarage Road. Neither side were particularly keen to keep the ball, it seemed. But there was one moment of real quality during the first-half – and that came from Raphinha.

The Brazilian scored his 10th league goal of the campaign. He produced a brilliant finish to beat Ben Foster from the edge of the box to put Leeds in front.

Of course, much of the talk surrounding Raphinha of late has been about where he may be playing next year. Barcelona are amongst those to have been linked with the 25-year-old.

And Woodgate suggested that he showed exactly he is attracting attention with the goal.

“Quality from Raphinha,” he told BBC Sport. “That is why teams all over the world are looking at this player. An outstanding touch; lined it up perfectly. He places it in the back of the net, Ben Foster has absolutely no chance; what a finish.”

Leeds can now surely expect larger fee for Raphinha if he leaves this summer

Obviously, Leeds would love to hold onto Raphinha for one more year. He has been massive for the Whites this season. And without him, the side would have been in serious danger.

Of course, there is still more work to be done this season. But Leeds can see the line now.

And with that, Leeds can probably expect a much larger fee if Raphinha does leave.

But perhaps Marsch’s men will hope for the kind of end to the campaign that leaves Raphinha with a tougher decision if he is considering his future.