Liverpool transfer news: No approach yet for Leeds United star Raphina but bid being prepared

Raphinha had a hugely successful first season with Leeds United.

Liverpool have not approached Leeds United about Raphinha – but are believed to be readying a move for the Brazilian.

Jurgen Klopp’s Reds are in the market for a new forward as they look to freshen up their attack ahead of a bid to regain their Premier League crown next season.

Raphinha had a hugely successful first season in England after his move to Leeds from Rennes last autumn for an initial fee of £17million.

Leeds United's Brazilian midfielder Raphinha scored six goals in his first Premier League season.

How Newcastle United missed out on Raphinha for bargain fee

The winger scored six goals and contributed nine assists as he made himself an instant hero at Elland Road.

Liverpool are understood to be keen to bolster their forward line, with the famed front three of Mo Salah, Firmino and Sadio Mane supplemented by last year’s signing Diego Jota.

They have been long linked with a move for Raphinha, and Leeds could be expected to at least double their money on a player that director of football Victor Orta admitted they gambled on late in the 2020 transfer window.

“Raphinha is a special case,” Orta told One Football. "He has been brilliant from the moment he touched this club.

“But it wasn’t easy because he arrived in the last few days of the transfer window, really nervous and, honestly, he didn’t have a lot of time to decide.

“We saw an opportunity late on and gambled – just like he did with us – and, hopefully, this is the beginning of something beautiful."

Sources close to Orta and the Leeds United hierarchy insist there has been no approach yet for the Brazilian, who is good friends with countryman Firmino.

However, reports have claimed that Liverpool are preparing to make an offer for Raphinha over the next few weeks.

With a contract that does not expire until the summer of 2024, Leeds are well placed to demand a huge fee if any potential suitors do come knocking.

A price tag of £35million has been mentioned in some quarters, but given Liverpool paid £42million to prise Jota away from Wolves, Leeds could expect to get more should they look to sell.