Leeds star Raphinha reacts to links with Liverpool

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Leeds United star Raphinha has told UOL Esporte that it is difficult to define how he feels after being linked with a move to Liverpool, but hinted that he plans to stay Elland Road for the duration of his contract.

Raphinha is one of several Leeds players who can reflect on an incredible first season in the Premier League.

The Brazilian arrived in Yorkshire for a fee of £17 million. And within a few appearances, it became apparent what a masterstroke Leeds had produced.

The 24-year-old scored six and contributed nine assists in the top flight. Unsurprisingly, links with a move away have already emerged.

According to a previous report from UOL Esporte, both Liverpool and Manchester United want the wide-man.

He has seemingly suggested that he is flattered by the links having loved the Premier League since being a child. But he also hinted that he plans to stay at Leeds.

“It is difficult to define how I feel when I hear speculation about giant teams like Liverpool and Manchester United interested in signing me. Man, I grew up watching these teams on television. I saw Rooney, Van Nistelrooy, Cristiano Ronaldo, but I also saw Gerrard, as well as others like Henry, Deco, Lampard,” he told UOL Esporte.

“And today I’m making people happy with my football. I am not only talking about the other clubs, but also Leeds, who was the one who bet on me. They are all very happy, including the fans who seem to have a great affection for me. I have a contract for another four years and I don’t even think about leaving here for exactly this reason: I am happy and making others happy.”

Leeds would love to keep Liverpool target Raphinha for the remaining years of his contract

Leeds fans have always tended to be fairly realistic about their chances of keeping Raphinha.

It is apparent that he is destined for the very top of the game. So the onus is on Leeds to keep progressing.

They have made an amazing start. Marcelo Bielsa’s men were outstanding in the final months of the season to secure a top-half finish.

And it feels as though they are yet to reach their ceiling under Bielsa. So they will be hoping to kick on once again next year.

It would be huge for Leeds if Raphinha did stay for the duration of his contract.

Given his performances this season, it would be a sign that Leeds have continued to grow if he sticks around for another two or three years.