Man United transfer news: Bruno raves about Raphinha, says Fred

Nicholas Hughes

• Updated: 19 May 2021 14:39 BST
• 2 min read

Man Utd are one of a number of clubs linked with a move for Leeds United winger Raphinha in the summer.

The Red Devils are set to travel to Elland Road to face Leeds for the first time since 2003, and they could get a chance to have a first-hand look at the Brazilian star.

But fellow countryman and United midfielder Fred admitted he hoped he won’t have to come up against the 24-year-old, who he claimed is hot property across Europe.

“He’s a great player having an amazing season and a lot of clubs have their eye on him,” Fred told the club’s official website.

“I met him recently, great guy, excellent player, but I hope he won’t be lining up against us!”

Man Utd target Raphinha at his sparkling best

Raphinha is currently under an injury cloud after missing the 1-1 draw with Liverpool – another rumoured admirer of his – last week and will face a late test to be marked ready to face United.

Yet to be capped by Brazil, Raphinha came through the ranks in Portugal with Vitoria Guimaraes before moving on to Sporting, where he partnered Bruno Fernandes.

Of course now at United, Fernandes has “been talking about Raphinha ever since he arrived” at Old Trafford according to Fred, giving a glowing recommendation of his former teammate.

READ MORE: Who is Raphinha?

If history should repeat itself, then Raphinha could be set to leave this summer. He only spent one season at Sporting before spending a year at Rennes before his move to England, indicative of his rapid development.

He was signed on the summer deadline for an estimated £17 million but Leeds will surely demand a great deal more than that if he is to be prized away.

Raphinha has dazzled with the ball at his feet for Leeds this season, registering six goals and six assists in Premier League action.

European football is not out of the question for Leeds with six games to go in their season, and Raphinha will be eager to get back on the pitch and help his side as far up the table as possible.