Raphinha speaks out on his future amid Liverpool, Man Utd and Chelsea interest

The Brazil international is likely to be one of the most in-demand players in world football this coming summer – when he will only have two years left on his contract – and is wanted by a host of clubs.

West Ham reportedly had a club-record £50million bid rejected in January, while there were suggestions Bayern Munich had been confident of prising him away from Elland Road in the winter.

There will be even more interest in Raphinha in the summer, with Chelsea and Manchester United both in the market for a new right winger and considering moves for the 25-year-old.

Despite signing Luis Diaz last month in a £37m deal from Porto, Liverpool still retain an interest in the former Rennes winger too – particularly with Sadio Mane, Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino all nearing the final year of their contracts.

But Raphinha insists he is not distracted by the enormous speculation surrounding his future or the question marks over his contract situation at Leeds.

‘I’ve got a contract until 2024, my head is totally here and focused on Leeds,’ the Brazilian told BBC Radio Leeds.

‘As for contractual matters, I leave them to my agent and my dad.

‘I just focus on playing my football and making the Leeds fans happy, scoring goals, providing assists and getting victories for the team.

‘Contractual matters are for my agent, my focus is on making people happy with my football and doing as best as I can for Leeds.’

Raphinha has enjoyed another excellent season in the Premier League, netting eight goals and laying on two assists in 19 appearances – though he has created 39 chances, ranking him fifth in the division.

Manager Marcelo Bielsa spoke glowingly about the attacker recently, saying: ‘Raphinha’s the best player in the team in all the senses. Physically he’s the best, technically he’s at the level of the best and his interpretation of the game is very wise.

‘He’s within the group of such a powerful nation as Brazil, he shines in the Premier League and he has the attention of all the big clubs in the world.

‘All of those things are something you guys know as well. Nothing I’m saying is new. As a result, the decision of the club [to open talks over a new contract] can only be valued.’

MORE : Marcelo Bielsa reveals 10 players asked to leave Leeds United in January

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