West Ham plotting ‘late swoop’ for Leeds winger Raphinha

Jason Soutar
Reported West Ham target Raphinha throwing the ball

West Ham are interested in making a surprise move for Leeds United winger Raphinha, according to reports.

The Brazil winger made the move to Marcelo Bielsa’s side in 2020 from Rennes. They paid around £17m to bring him to the Premier League.

Raphinha was one of the league’s breakout stars during the 2020/21 campaign.


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The 25-year-old has also been in great form this season as he has provided eight goals and two assists from his 19 Premier League games.

His form for Leeds coincided with him making his debut for Brazil last year and he has now been capped five times.

Raphinha is attracting interest from a number of clubs, including Liverpool and Bayern Munich. However, West Ham could make a surprise move for the Leeds star before Monday’s transfer deadline, according to 90min.

The report says that the Hammers are preparing to “test Leeds’ resolve” over the 25-year-old winger.

He is “interesting” the east Londoners and there is a chance they could make a bid to sign him before the end of the month.

West Ham can offer Raphinha European football this season having qualified for the Europa League knockout stage.

His contract at Elland Road expires in 2024 and head coach Marcelo Bielsa has welcomed negotiations over a new deal.

“It’s a great decision,” said Bielsa. “Raphinha’s the best player in the team in all the senses.

“Physically he’s the best, technically he’s at the level of the best and his interpretation of the game is very wise.

“He’s within the group of such a powerful nation as Brazil, he shines in the Premier League and he has the attention of all the big clubs in the world.

“All of those things are something you guys know as well. Nothing I’m saying is new. As a result, the decision of the club can only be valued.”