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Leeds could have unexpected late January test to contend with as West Ham lurk for Raphinha

Leeds United could have an unexpected late January test to contend with as West Ham are reportedly lurking for Raphinha.

Contract discussions between the Whites hierarchy and their star man have begun this month with Liverpool having been heavily linked with a move for him. A bumper new deal is set to be put on the table at Elland Road.

And that news went a long way to relieve some of the anxiety surrounding the Brazil international’s future.

However, it now looks like that concern may creep in again ahead of Transfer Deadline Day on Monday.

That’s because the Hammers are interested in him, according to 90min. And they claim a huge move could be made to test Leeds’ resolve.

Raphinha has been a thorn in David Moyes’ side this season. The two Premier League clubs have faced off three times including their FA Cup clash.

And the winger has impressed in every outing. He opened the scoring for his side in their 2-1 home defeat.

Then he came on at half-time in the third round of the cup competition and took the game to the opponents in another loss.

The third match ended in a 3-2 victory for Leeds, though. And Raphinha set up one of Jack Harrison’s hat-trick of strikes.

Despite him previously saying he is happy with the Whites, West Ham can of course offer the potential of European football.

If they can maintain their strong position in the Prem pecking order, then they will also arguably offer a higher prestige to him.

The World Cup is now just a matter of months away. So that could further help his cause for being included in his nation’s squad.

Potential incoming for Leeds

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Meanwhile, Leeds have made an offer for a teenage sensation but face an anxious wait after his head was turned, as per a report.

The Yorkshire club have already had one youngster, 21-year-old Brenden Aaronson, on their radar in the January transfer window.

And it seems youth remains the order of business for Marcelo Bielsa before Transfer Deadline Day rolls around on Monday.

After having to let a deal for Aaronson go until the summer, the Whites boss has turned his attention to a defensive target…

READ MORELeeds take aim at teenage sensation – but Italian offer turns head leaving Bielsa hanging

 

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