Leeds United are gaining hope in their bid to keep one key player this summer when it initially looked hopeless and now, Raphinha could help Leeds secure his services next term.
Plenty of Leeds players have attracted interest this summer. Archie Gray has already gone to Tottenham for a fee of £40m, while four other players have left Elland Road permanently including Marc Roca.
But there is likely to be more. Willy Gnonto, Illan Meslier, Ilia Gruev, Glen Kamara, Junior Firpo and even Georginio Rutter have attracted the interest from other clubs as the summer transfer window grows older.
But of course, Crysencio Summerville is the one Leeds player that has attracted the most interest. Latest reports say Eddie Howe is a ‘big admirer’ of Summerville and could sell Miguel Almiron to fund a move.
Why Raphinha could help Leeds keep Crysencio Summerville
The two crossed paths for Raphinha’s final season, though Summerville was hardly involved and it was the Dutch talent that actually replaced Raphinha in the Leeds squad when the latter left for Brazil in 2022.
The Brazil star struggled at Copa America despite a goal against Colombia, but has been very consistent during his two seasons at Barcelona. However, Barca could sell and Mundo Deportivo deliver an update.
They say that Barcelona are open to an £80m exit with Newcastle interested in signing the former Rennes and Sporting Lisbon winger. But if Raphinha is to leave Barcelona, Saudi Arabia is a likely destination.
What Nancy Froston has said about Summerville’s Leeds future
Newcastle signing Raphinha even if his price tag would be enormous, would end any interest The Toon have in signing Leeds star Summerville. Mainly, as there wouldn’t be any cash left, but no need either.
The Athletic’s Nancy Froston says that Summerville could end up staying at Leeds despite having “big ambition” and plenty of opportunities to play in the Premier League, but he’s not pushing for a move.
“A good chance he stays. He’s got big ambitions to play at a higher level. Whether a top Premier League team puts some money on the table, not looking that way at the moment. I fancy him to still be around.”
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