Journalist hints Raphinha could yet decide to stay at Leeds next year

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Journalist Dean Jones has told Give Me Sport that some close to Raphinha have claimed that he could yet be convinced to stay at Leeds United beyond this season amid speculation over his future.

Raphinha continues to be linked with a move away from Elland Road. In fact, reports have claimed that the Brazilian has already agreed personal terms with Barcelona.

The problem Barca faced was the uncertainty surrounding what division Leeds would be in next year. Obviously, he would cost a lot less if they were relegated.

Now however, the picture looks a lot brighter for Jesse Marsch’s side. They now sit nine points clear of the bottom three. And some of the sides below them missed an opportunity to close the gap.

With that, Leeds can perhaps hope for a record-breaking fee for Raphinha should he still leave. But perhaps there is a chance that the Whites may end up getting one more year out of the forward.

Jones has suggested that those around Raphinha believe that he could leave. However, the door is not being shut on the 25-year-old still being a Leeds player next year.

“We’re not going to rule out the fact that he might leave Leeds, but at the same time, if they could talk him into staying, then he might stay,” he told Give Me Sport when explaining what his representatives have said.

Raphinha staying at Leeds for another season could be massive

Obviously, Leeds could do a lot if they receive a huge fee for Raphinha. However, there is no question that keeping him could be massive for them this summer.

Not only are they holding onto their best player, but Leeds will also find it easier to attract better players should he stay.

He is a world-class player setting his sights on earning a place in the Brazil squad at the World Cup. It could be game-changing for Leeds if they could keep him for another campaign.