Raphinha spent three years at Leeds United as he made a name for himself playing for the Whites and in the Premier League. However, could a return to England’s top flight be in the future?
The Brazilian made 67 appearances across all competitions for the English side. Eventually, his performance garnered the attention of FC Barcelona, and he left Elland Road in 2022.
Over the past three years, Raphinha has had a rollercoaster tenure, making 95 total appearances while scoring 25 goals and 28 assists. Furthermore, he’s won two trophies during his tenure, winning La Liga during the 2022-23 season and the Copa del Rey in the same campaign too.
Nonetheless, this season, the former Leeds standout has established himself as a crucial player under new manager Hansi Flick, who recently appointed him captain in Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s absence.
However, due to financial troubles at Camp Nou, most players have a price tag, and he has caught the eye of several potential suitors.
Could Raphinha return to England?
Tottenham Hotspur have become the latest Premier League team to show interest in former Leeds star Raphinha. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano claims the north London club has “always appreciated” Raphinha, who has been the subject of intense transfer speculation this summer, especially regarding a potential move from Barcelona.
“Raphinha has always been attractive to several clubs, not only in Europe, when Barcelona signed him from Leeds there was interest from Chelsea and interest from Arsenal,” Romano told his YouTube channel. “He’s always been a player of interest for Tottenham, they have always appreciated him.”
It will be interesting to see what the Spanish side decides to do next summer with the player, who is under contract until 2027. Could they choose to sell high on the forward and use the sale to fund other purchases as they continue building a squad to Flick’s liking?
Nonetheless, the Catalan side may also opt to seek an extension to keep the winger long-term. Should he return to England next summer, it will be a little bittersweet for Leeds supporters, especially if the Whites secure promotion to England’s top flight for the 2025-26 season.
