My Football Facts ⇒ Articles
Written by Martin Graham | 25 May 2022
Brazilian winger Rafinha has reportedly submitted a transfer request to Leeds United amid links with Barcelona.
Reports also claim that Barcelona have been kept informed of the latest developments surrounding a major transfer and that the Catalan giants will ramp up their moves for the 25-year-old next week.
Leeds are preparing to lose a number of their players this season with Calvin Phillips on the radar of Manchester City and Jack Harrison on the list of Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United.
Ravenha is a target for a number of clubs as well, but it is understood that the Brazilian would prefer a move to Barcelona than other clubs lining up to sign him. Leeds have already rejected a club-record £46m bid for Ravenha from Barcelona, which prompted the player to hand in a transfer request, per sports.
Other reports believe Ravenha has agreed personal terms with Barcelona and, after requesting his transfer, will now push the club for his signature. However, Leeds hold all the cards as they are now safe in the Premier League.
Jack Harrison’s battle between Tottenham and Newcastle
Harrison, who is on the left side of Leeds’ attack, could leave in the summer alongside Ravenha.
Newcastle had him shortlisted for January but stayed on Elland Road. Spurs took the initiative to make a move but Newcastle chose to retreat into the fray to start the bidding war.
Tottenham turned to Harrison after losing to Luis Diaz, who opted to move to Liverpool in January. On the other hand, Newcastle have been reported willing to part ways with Allan Saint-Maximin to open up space for Harrison on the left side of their attack.
Magpies wants Harrison because his ability to project the ball is better than Saint-Maximin, making him a perfect fit for forwards Callum Wilson and Chris Wood.
If Harrison is to leave Elland Road, Newcastle will have to do a lot of convincing as the 25-year-old will turn his head over the prospect of playing in the UEFA Champions League with Spurs.
Leeds are close to signing Red Bull Salzburg player Brenden Aronson at the request of manager Jesse Marsh. The American winger could play as a wide man and as an attacking midfielder and would be a good alternative to Harrison.
An added bonus is that Marsch and Aaronson have worked together, so the couple will be able to communicate well enough.
