The signing of Raphinha from Rennes back in October for a reported £17 million was welcomed with excitement by Leeds fans, as many trusted that Marcelo Bielsa had plucked a gem from Ligue 1.
It did not take long for Leeds supporters to see exactly why the Argentine wanted the winger so much, as he has been superb in his first season in England. Not only is he on course for being the club’s Player of the Year, but there is also a strong argument to suggest he is the signing of the season in the Premier League.

Raphinha has scored five goals and provided five assists in his opening 22 games for the Whites. He has been a huge part of his side’s attacking threat as he has been so difficult to defend against.

Not only are Leeds on course for securing Premier League football next season, Bielsa will have his eyes on ending the campaign in the top half of the table. Leeds are 11/4 in the football betting to finish in the top 10. If Raphinha continues the form he is in, the Whites will have a good chance of doing that on their first year back in the top-flight.

Dias And Rodriguez Also In Conversation

Manchester City’s Ruben Dias and Everton’s James Rodriguez are the other two players which seem to be in the conversation with Raphinha when it comes to who is the signing of the season.

Dias has made a huge contribution to Manchester City’ improved defensive record. He has developed an excellent partnership with John Stones at the back and their results over the last few months speak for themselves.

Rodriguez has lived up to the big reputation which he came with when he arrived at Goodison Park. The Colombian has been worth every penny of the £20 million that Everton paid for his services.

Unlike Dias and Rodriguez, Raphinha didn’t quite have the same reputation when he arrived in England. He has quickly become one of the most exciting attackers in the Premier League so there is a strong case to be made to give him the nod over those other two players.

Interest From Major European Clubs

Given how impressive he has been in the 2020/21 campaign, it is no surprise that Raphinha is being linked with major European clubs such as Barcelona and Liverpool. Leeds will be doing everything they can this summer to convince the Brazilian that his future should be with the club.

A new contract would be one way of shutting down any talk about the player leaving in the near future. It would also be a huge boost to the squad as it would help attract other big stars when the transfer window reopens.

If the worst did happen though, and Raphinha decided he wants to take the opportunity at a club like Barcelona, Leeds could demand much more than they paid for the player last year. His valuation could easily be north of £50 million.

The future is definitely bright for Raphinha as he has the potential to carry on developing. Leeds fans will be hoping that happens at Elland Road under the mentorship of Bielsa.