As if out of nowhere, the message popped up on Christmas Eve: FC Bayern is said to be facing a January transfer from winger Raphinha from Leeds United. TNT Sports Brasil, a by no means dubious source, spread the report, which contained many details. Such as the transfer fee (50 million euros) and the three percent share for Raphinha’s training club Avai (1.5 million euros). The frown at the report among fans and professionals alike was great. SPOX and GOAL clarify.
First of all is TNT Sports Brasil one of the largest sports channels in the country of the five-time world champion. For example, the Champions League games are broadcast there and the station was the first to report on the world record transfer of the then Barcelona star Neymar to Paris Saint-Germain. Author Bruno Formiga is also one of the recognized journalists there.
Since then, several international media have jumped on the bandwagon. Last also wrote The Sun, Bavaria is keen on Raphinha. In the English tabloid, the possible transfer demand from Leeds was even put at the equivalent of 71 million euros.
This is contradicted by a report by The Athletic clearly, in which it is said that there has been no contact between those responsible at FCB and the Peacocks. This also writes the Yorkshire Evening Post, a trusted source when it comes to Leeds United.
It’s no secret that FC Bayern keep their eyes open when it comes to possible reinforcements for the offensive flanks. Especially not since Kingsley Coman hesitated to extend his contract, which ran until 2023. Contract talks are also currently underway with Serge Gnabry.
Raphina: How likely is a transfer?
A Raphinha transfer (to Munich) in January is still not realistic, let alone likely, for several reasons:
Leeds, currently table-16. in the Premier League, is weak this season and will not give up its best player in January without real hardship.
FC Bayern has never paid a reported 50 million euro transfer fee for a transfer in winter. It’s hard to believe that this will now change in Corona times.
Julian Nagelsmann and Hasan Salihamidzic have already ruled out January transfers on Säbener Straße.
Leeds would like to extend the contract with Raphinha ahead of schedule and in accordance with The Athletic the wing racer is open to this request.
A change in the summer of 2022 is much more realistic – especially in the event that Coman wants to leave Munich and it would be the last chance to get a high transfer fee for the Champions League hero from Lisbon. That could then be invested in Raphinha.
FC Bayern: Liverpool also want Raphinha
Should Bayern decide to advertise, they would have well-known competition. Liverpool FC is, according to information from SPOX and GOAL definitely interested in the 25 year old. The Reds have a good relationship with Raphinha’s agent and Barca legend Deco, who also represents Fabinho. The Reds followed with great interest how Raphinha under Marcelo Bielsa achieved top performances in a physically absolutely challenging system.
Reds correspondent Neil Jones said: “Last summer the club decided against advertising because of the prevailing belief that there was nothing more to do when attacking, but there is no longer any doubt that this will happen for the new season. Firmino and Mane are not in top shape and Minamino and Origi have failed to recommend themselves for a place. The name Raphinha will certainly play a role in the planning. “
That is hardly surprising, because Raphinha fits perfectly into power football with aggressive pressing, like Jürgen Klopp in Liverpool and Julian Nagelsmann at Bayern. Raphinha is quick and, most importantly, explosive. Thanks to his low center of gravity, he is strong at dribbling and unpredictable in offensive duels.
The five-time international likes to be run behind by the right-back, then pull in from the outside lane and finish with his left foot. A combination like the one that already existed on the right wing in Munich.
The 1.75 meter tall and barely 60 kilo striker looks robust despite his low weight, has decent skills as a flanker and preparer and fits into the street footballer category. He grew up in his hometown Porto Alegre, where he played every free minute and imitated his idol Ronaldinho. Via Avai, Raphael Dias Belloli, as his real name is called, went to Guimaraes in 2016. This was followed by transfers of millions to Sporting, Stade Rennes and just to Elland Road.
Bayern candidate Raphinha: someone like Angel Di Maria
Leeds comrade Patrick Bamford raved about the earlier this year Leeds United Podcast of Raphinha’s qualities as an endurance runner and compared him with PSG star Angel Di Maria in view of his light-footedness and excellent technique. Small difference between the two: Di Maria crashed in the Premier League at ManUnited, while Raphinha is now one of the attractions in the best league in the world.
Last fall, he said his big goal was the Champions League. At the time he also emphasized that he had “no doubts” that he could achieve this with Leeds: “You have to bring together players with the right winning mentality and the right coach. Plus a coaching staff and fans who love the club. Then you can create a wonderful atmosphere in the stadium and on the training ground. “
Bayern advertising for Raphinha is still nothing more than plausible speculation. But this could lead to a very hot personality, especially with a view to the coming season.
