Liverpool could move for Raphinha in January

Leeds United winger Raphinha has been linked with Liverpool for a long time. There is obvious need for the Merseysiders to target high-quality wide attackers of his age (24) with Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah both set to turn 30 next year and Roberto Firmino already at that mark.

The latest story involving Liverpool and Raphinha comes from Fabrizio Romano, who told fan forum Empire of the Kop that the move makes sense this January, given that both Salah and Mane will spend some time away at the African Cup of Nations. The Leeds man would obviously fit in well with his Brazil teammates, Alisson Becker, Fabinho and Firmino.

However, Romano also explains that a deal wouldn’t be as straightforward as many expect. Raphinha’s release clause is apparently set at £80 million, which would make him the most expensive Liverpool player ever, and there are also wages and various bonuses to consider.

If nothing happens this winter, there is a chance Liverpool will revisit the idea at the end of the season.

“Talking about wingers, this is a player Liverpool really appreciates,” the Italian journalist said.

“I think he’s ready for the next step and so I see him having huge chances of going to a huge club next summer and so it could be an opportunity for Liverpool and let’s see what happens with Salah and Mane”.