Exclusive: Nigel Martyn thinks Leeds should tie up Raphinha contract, on one condition

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Nigel Martyn has told The Boot Room that Leeds United should look to tie up Raphinha’s contract as the Brazilian continues to shine following his move from Stade Rennais – but only if he is not already one of the club’s highest earners.

Raphinha, 23, was something of an unknown when he and Portuguese legend Deco – his agent – turned up at Elland Road to orchestrate a £17million deadline-day move. The deal has since turned out to be an excellent decision by the Leeds hierarchy.

Former Sporting Lisbon ace Raphinha has had a hand in eight goals during his 16 Premier League appearances. Scoring four, he has matched Timo Werner’s goal tally at Chelsea – despite playing out wide, and featuring in five less games.

He has also shown creativity, laying on four assists. Andrea Radrizzani recently told The Times that he is a fan of Leicester City’s model in terms of their growth, with the Foxes cashing in on their best players and buying well in the transfer window.

With that in mind, a big offer might tempt Leeds to consider selling Raphinha in the summer. But Martyn thinks Leeds should offer the Brazilian a new contract to reward his fantastic form – unless he is already one of the club’s top earners.

TBR’s view – Possibility of selling Raphinha is real

Fans of other clubs – most notably Arsenal – have already begun to discuss their admiration of Raphinha on social media. Eventually, that hype surrounding Raphinha could catch the attention of a club. Are Leeds a stepping stone for Raphinha?

Leicester have sold Harry Maguire, Ngolo Kante, Riyad Mahrez, Ben Chilwell and even Danny Drinkwater for big money when a big club has come calling – in those cases, Manchester United, Chelsea on three occasions and Manchester City for Mahrez.

If Radrizzani is to copy that model, Raphinha’s future might be somewhat hazy. He is showing quality that is worth at least double the £17million fee Leeds paid – so, if a bid is tabled, Radrizzani might sell, even with his contract lasting until 2024.