Liverpool urged to sign Raphinha from Leeds to provide extra ‘spark’

Martin Macdonald

• 3 Jun 2021 08:34 BST
• 5 min read

Former Liverpool attacker Emile Heskey believes Leeds United winger Raphinha would be an excellent addition to the squad at Anfield this summer.

Jurgen Klopp is believed to be in the market for another forward player to compete with Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino, Mohamed Salah and Diogo Jota.

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Raphinha was a late addition for Leeds at the beginning of last season as he completed his £17 million transfer from Rennes at the start of October due to the extended transfer window.

The Brazilian has enjoyed a superb debut season in England, with 15 goal contributions in 25 starts in the Premier League.

His performances have led to rumoured interest from Liverpool, and Heskey wants the Reds to pull the trigger on a deal.

“Another great signing if he can come,” he told Rousing the Kop.

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A post shared by Raphinha Belloli (@raphinha)

“He’s had a fantastic season. Granted that the Leeds way of playing excites everyone, so aggressive, so forward thinking, so energetic.

“When you see him play, he brings that spark, that difference and guile, the little bit of skill. He’d be a fantastic addition at a good age.”

Will Raphinha move?

Unfortunately for Liverpool, judging by Raphinha’s most recent comments on his future, it appears he will stay at Leeds for now.

“I have a contract for another four years and I don’t even think about leaving here for exactly this reason: I am happy and making others happy,” he said.

However, he would keep the door open for a move to Anfield by revealing he has a few friends on Merseyside.

“In Liverpool, there is Alisson who is from the South too, so everything stays the same. There is still Fabinho, who is from the same place as Firmino and I,” the Brazilian added.

“In fact, did you know that Firmino was the first guy who texted me when I came here? He’s a great friend.”