West Ham deal for Raphinha and Phillips could soon become 'more realistic'

Leeds United duo Raphinha and Kalvin Phillips will definitely be more realistic targets for West Ham if they qualify for the Champions League at the end of the season, says journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The Hammers tried to sign the pair in the last transfer window but had no success.

According to multiple reports, West Ham had offers for both Raphinha and Phillips rejected by Leeds. 90min claimed that the east London club had a £50m approach for the former knocked back by their Premier League rivals, while The Guardian reported that they also saw a £50m bid for the latter rebuffed.

Phillips is currently out injured and is not expected to be back until March, but he has proven to be an important player for both club and country when fit. The 26-year-old played 29 times in the Premier League for Leeds last season and, of course, helped England to reach the Euro 2020 final.

Raphinha was also a Leeds player who manager Marcelo Bielsa heavily relied on last term, with the Brazilian scoring six goals and assisting another nine in his debut campaign in the English top flight.

Ultimately, it is easy to see why the Yorkshire club turned down the two offers for their midfielder and winger.

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O’Rourke, however, does not think that is the end of things and believes Raphinha and Phillips could become more realistic targets for West Ham if they secure Champions League qualification.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, the transfer insider said: “Definitely would be more realistic if West Ham can offer the likes of Raphinha or Kalvin Phillips Champions League football.

“That’s where all the top footballers want to play. They want to play in the Champions League.”

The Hammers will