Leeds should consider Raphinha decision amid amazing form

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There is surely no question which summer transfer proved to be Leeds United’s biggest masterstroke ahead of the Whites’ return to the Premier League.

Marcelo Bielsa’s side were busy in the window following promotion. Along with signing a number of young players, Leeds brought in the likes of Rodrigo, Robin Koch and Diego Llorente before the end of September.

And they had one more pleasant surprise in store before the deadline passed.

On deadline day, Leeds announced that they had signed Rennes winger Raphinha. According to BBC Sport, the fee was an initial £17 million. It was also confirmed that he had signed a four-year deal at Elland Road.

The 24-year-old has since made 16 Premier League appearances for the Whites, starting 13 times. And he has already provided four goals and four assists for Bielsa’s men.

Leeds were inspired for signing Raphinha. And the masterstroke has been highlighted by the fact that supporters already seem to be concerned about how long they can hold onto him for.

It seems to be a matter of time before the Brazilian is linked with rival clubs. So perhaps Leeds should look to be proactive and set their sights on agreeing a new contract with the winger.

The Whites are under little pressure right now. Raphinha obviously has around three and a half years left on his current terms.

Nevertheless, it can surely only be a good thing to reward him with improved, extended terms.

Firstly, if Raphinha is happy to sign, he will surely welcome the show of faith in him. And if the time does come when Leeds look destined to lose him, the Whites will be able to ask for considerably more if he is tied down until 2025 or even 2026.

Finally, based on the form he is currently showing, Leeds would be making a huge statement if they were able to agree a new contract.

He has been a revelation since moving to England. And there seems to be little reason why he cannot improve further still.

The early signs hint Leeds could have a player in their ranks with world-class potential.

A new contract may not be a must, and would come as surprise. But it is difficult to think of many pieces of business that would be more positively received by the fans.