A brilliant photo, showcasing developments on the pitch on the back of Leeds United’s meeting with Brighton & Hove Albion has come to the fore on Sunday evening.
The image in question centers on star Peacocks pair Kalvin Phillips and Raphinha.
Amid ongoing speculation surrounding the futures of both players, as Leeds continue to battle against relegation from the Premier League, Phillips found time to enjoy a rare laugh with his Brazilian teammate a short time ago.
After seeing out the club’s final home fixture of the season, which saw Jesse Marsch’s troops keep alive their survival hopes courtesy of a last-gasp equaliser, the English international secured for himself a fan-made sign from the crowd, reading:
‘Raphinha, Make me Smile’.
And Leeds’ gifted wide-man evidently derived some enjoyment from the gesture, spotted sitting on the Elland Road turf with a wide grin spread across his face:
😊 Here for this wholesome content! pic.twitter.com/8gg8xTVWw3
— Leeds United (@LUFC) May 15, 2022
Not only that, but Raphinha was subsequently spotted carrying the sign in question off the pitch and back towards the dressing room.
Barca remain keen
So, what is the latest word on Leeds’ star attacker’s future at Elland Road?
Well, an insight into precisely that was forthcoming late on Saturday night.
As per transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Raphinha has held extensive discussions with Spanish giants Barcelona over the terms of a 5-year contract over the last couple of months.
Negotiations with Leeds’ board, on the other hand, are yet to get underway, albeit with a €25 million release clause in the Brazilian international’s deal in Yorkshire set to become active in the case that the Whites are relegated from the English top-flight.
Nothing has changed between Barça and Raphinha despite rumours. Talks on personal terms [five year deal] are more than advanced since February. 🇧🇷 #FCB
No talks with Leeds yet, matter of respect – and no 75m release clause. ⛔️
The only clause is for 25m in case of relegation. https://t.co/9sYCXwJFLY
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 15, 2022
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