West Ham will reportedly ‘test the resolve’ of Leeds United in a move for Raphinha before the transfer deadline passes.
The Hammers are in search of additional attacking options and the 25-year-old has been amongst the in-form players in the Premier League over the last 18 months.
Signed for £17million from Ligue 1 side Rennes in 2020 (BBC), the right-winger has contributed directly to 25 goals in 51 outings for Leeds.
According to a report from 90min, as cited by Toby Cudworth on Twitter, the Irons are keen on making a late swoop for the Brazilian.
🚨 #WHUFC could make a dramatic late move for Leeds winger Raphinha.
Will take a substantial offer for #LUFC to entertain any kind of deal but have learned that West Ham are interested & may test their resolve.
✍️ w/ @GraemeBailey / @90min_Football https://t.co/kaSKNBRQaG
— Toby Cudworth (@Toby_Cudworth) January 28, 2022
The report claims that a ‘bid could be made’ before the deadline for the five-times capped Brazil star.
This season Raphinha – described as ‘phenomenal’ by Jermaine Beckford – has scored eight times and provided two assists in 19 league appearances.
READ WEST HAM VERDICT
Valued at £36million and under contract at Elland Road until 2024 (Transfermarkt), this would be an expensive transfer for the east London club.
Despite being a hugely talented player who has taken to English football with apparent ease, Raphinha’s favoured role coincides directly with that of West Ham standout Jarrod Bowen.
Unless the Hammers are planning a late departure for their English ace – with Liverpool reportedly keen on both Bowen and Raphinha previously – this is a deal that remains highly unlikely to happen in this window at least.
Whilst the Irons would be an attractive proposition to the Brazilian with the prospect of European football this season and next, it would appear to be a non-starter.
