Leeds: £60m star 'fully expected' to seal exit from Elland Road

Leeds United are expected to sanction Raphinha’s Elland Road departure if Barcelona offer up to £60million, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The Brazilian has been in Yorkshire for less than two years, having joined in a £17million deal from Rennes, but it appears he may be heading onto pastures new during the upcoming transfer window.

It is understood that Barcelona are set to make their interest in Raphinha ‘formal’ in the coming days.

Leeds could have a tough job on their hands when it comes to attempting to persuade the winger to remain at Elland Road as, according to Spanish sources, he has already told the Premier League club’s hierarchy that he wants to head to the Nou Camp ahead of next season.

The report suggests Raphinha feels his time in England is over and the seven-cap Brazil international has made his intentions clear in a bid to speed up his exit.

He was also the subject of interest from West Ham United during the January transfer window, but the east Londoners saw a £50million bid turned down.

Raphinha has scored 17 goals and registered a further 12 assists in 67 Leeds appearances, while he also played a key role in his current employers finishing three points clear of the Premier League’s relegation zone this season.

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O’Rourke understands that Raphinha has his heart set on joining Barcelona during the summer transfer window, which officially opens next month.

The journalist feels the wide-man will get his wish as long as the La Liga giants meet Leeds’ financial expectations.

O’Rourke told GIVEMESPORT: “I think Raphinha has admitted that he would be interested in a move to Barcelona and Barcelona are keen to bring the Brazilian