Report: West Ham have approached Raphinha about deal for Leeds star

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West Ham have approached Raphinha about a summer move for the Leeds United star, according to a report from Spanish outlet Sport.

Raphinha moving away from Elland Road has started to look increasingly likely. Jesse Marsch’s men are now just two points above the bottom three and have played a game more than Everton.

Barcelona want Raphinha this summer. And reports have suggested that he has already agreed personal terms with the Catalan giants. However, there was always going to be rival offers.

West Ham made one of the most audacious moves for Raphinha in January. Leeds reportedly rejected a £50 million bid from the Hammers for the Brazilian.

Kalvin Phillips poked fun at the idea of Raphinha leaving for £50 million. But it would appear that West Ham have not been deterred in their pursuit of the 25-year-old.

Sport reports that West Ham have approached Raphinha, but it is suggested that his preference would be to join Barcelona.

West Ham have approached Raphinha, but may be set for fresh disappointment

Raphinha is an ‘incredible’ player who should not be battling near the relegation zone. Leeds will now do incredibly well to hold onto him whatever happens in the remaining weeks of the season.

But West Ham’s chances of a deal perhaps look slim. If Leeds are relegated, it seems a formality for Barcelona to snatch him away. And if they stay up, his asking price will be considerably higher.

The Irons have not tended to be amongst the biggest spenders. And while they did make a big bid in January, they would have surely been amazed had they been successful.

The time is right for West Ham to take that next step after two amazing years. Perhaps they feel that signing Raphinha would be the way to elevate themselves further.