Could Liverpool use reported Leeds interest to sign £17m Brazilian?

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The race for Neco Williams is hotting up. Just 24 hours after his impressive Wales outing against Italy at Euro 2020, a report from The Athletic claim Leeds are one of four Premier League sides are interested. But could Liverpool use that to their advantage – in a player-plus-cash deal?

Williams, 20, is considered one of Liverpool’s brightest prospects having clocked up 25 senior outings under Jurgen Klopp. But there are doubts among the fanbase over whether he can break in on a regular basis. He can play right-back or left-back, but he is some way off being first choice.

Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson continue to keep him on the sidelines. So, the 13-time Wales international may have to depart and The Athletic say a fee of £10million will see him go. Leeds have shown interest in the past 12 months – as have Aston Villa, Southampton and Burnley.

Liverpool transfer news: Raphinha swap as Leeds eye Williams?

Meanwhile, Leeds star Raphinha has sparkled in his first season. His 15 Premier League goal involvements – scoring six and creating five – has attracted the attention of Liverpool. Reports from his homeland of Brazil have claimed Liverpool, and Manchester United, want the Leeds star.

But the chances of Liverpool getting Raphinha – who cost Leeds just £17million – for anything below £50million is unlikely. Leeds are under no pressure to sell. However, including a player in a deal to both reduce the price tag and tempt Leeds into sanctioning a deal would seriously help.

So, if Leeds are serious about Williams – then Liverpool could tempt Leeds by throwing a slightly-reduced offer for Raphinha, but a deal including Williams. If Raphinha is worth £50million, then £40million plus Williams could do the trick. Leeds will fight tooth and nail to keep him, though.