Manchester United have reportedly contacted Leeds United over the possibility of signing Raphinha, who is also a target for Liverpool.
According to a report by Brazilian outlet UOL Esporte, Manchester United have stepped up their efforts to sign Raphinha in the summer transfer window. The Leeds United forward is also the subject of interest from Premier League champions Liverpool, who have scouted the 24-year-old quite extensively this season.
Raphinha joined Leeds United from Rennes on deadline day last summer and has gone on to make an instant impact at Elland Road. While not exactly being prolific, the Brazilian forward still has a creditable return of 5 goals and as many assists in 21 Premier League appearances.
His progress over the course of the season has alerted the two most successful English clubs in history. Liverpool registered their interest in the 24-year-old early, and have closely monitored him this term. Most recently, they have been joined in the race to sign Raphinha by bitter rivals Manchester United.
Liverpool appear set for a squad overhaul ahead of the summer transfer window following a season that has seen their stock plummet considerably. Attack is one of the departments that is set to be addressed, with Xherdan Shaqiri and Divock Origi being surplus to requirements at Anfield, meaning Raphinha could be an addition that could have an impact akin to Diogo Jota.
Manchester United, on the other hand, could have a more straightforward usage of Raphinha, who is primarily a right-winger. With United’s struggles from the right flank being well-documented, the 24-year-old could make an instant impact, in theory, which explains their interest in him.
To that end, Manchester United have taken a concrete step in pursuit of Raphinha, having made contact with Leeds United over the prospect of a summer move. Having said that, recent reports have suggested that the Whites have no interest in parting ways with the player anytime soon and so, the Red Devils and Liverpool could well have to turn their attention elsewhere.
For now, it looks like Manchester United are stepping up their efforts to land Raphinha in the summer transfer window and it remains to be seen if they can secure his services post the end of the season, or if Liverpool can swoop him away instead, or if he stays put at Leeds.