'Watch out...' - Journalist drops late-night twist on Raphinha's Leeds United future

Manchester United and Arsenal have emerged as suitors for Leeds United winger Raphinha this summer, according to journalist Gianluigi Longari.

The Whites preserved their Premier League status after winning 2-1 away to Brentford last weekend, on what was a huge day for the club.

Raphinha did his more than his fair share throughout the campaign, leading Leeds’ scoring charts with 11 league goals and firing home a vital penalty in the aforementioned victory over the Bees.

It is widely expected that the 25-year-old will depart for Spain this summer, however, having reached a natural conclusion at Elland Road and with Barcelona eyeing up a move.

Taking to Twitter late on Wednesday night, Longari claimed that Manchester United and Arsenal could throw a twist into the battle to sign the Brazilian:

“Raphinha first offer rejected by #Leeds. Barca have priority but watch out for the Premier (#Arsenal and #Mufc).”

It is wholly understandable why a move to Barca would appeal to Raphinha, with some of his country’s greatest-ever players representing the club, whether it be Ronaldo, Ronaldinho or Romario.

It would be hard to begrudge him a switch to the Catalan giants then, but it is tough to see him heading to United or Arsenal, especially with the former being Leeds’ bitter rivals.

Meanwhile, the Gunners failed to qualify for the Champions League in 2022/23, so Raphinha is unlikely to leave a club he loves only to be plying his trade in the Europa League next season.

Moving to Barca still feels likely but if that doesn’t materialise it could give Jesse Marsch hope of keeping hold of one of his star men.

In other news, a transfer expert has talked up a Leeds signing happening this summer. Read more here.

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