Leeds United winger Raphinha will cost ‘close to £60 million’ if potential suitors want to prise him away from Elland Road this summer, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

A host of top European sides have been linked with a move for the 25-year-old in recent weeks as the race for his signature begins to heat up.

What is the latest news involving Raphinha?

According to Spanish outlet Sport, Barcelona have already tabled an opening offer of €35m (£29m) for Raphinha, who has asked his agent Deco to do ‘everything possible’ to secure a switch to Camp Nou.

The report claims that new manager Xavi has identified the Brazil international as an ideal replacement for wantaway winger Ousmane Dembele.

However, it’s also believed that Raphinha’s contract, which has just over two years left to run, contains a €75m (£62.5m) release clause, meaning Barca are likely going to have to increase their bid by a considerable amount.

Meanwhile, The Mirror have stated that the Catalan giants are set to face extensive competition for the South American’s signature when the market reopens for business.

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The likes of Liverpool, Manchester City, Bayern Munich, West Ham and Newcastle United have also been credited with an interest in Raphinha’s services.

Leeds are said to have slapped a £60m price tag on their prized asset in order to deter any potential suitors, but that figure may be in reach for many of the sides keeping close tabs on the creative talent’s situation.

What has O’Rourke said about Raphinha?

Due to his outstanding displays over the last 18 months, Leeds are thought to be keen to hand Raphinha fresh terms with a significant pay rise.

But keeping him in west Yorkshire will be a struggle, and O’Rourke reckons the Whites’ hierarchy will demand a sizeable amount for his services.

He told GiveMeSport: “I think it's going to take a lot more than £29 million to sign Raphinha. You're probably looking at close to £60 million to get him.”

Would losing Raphinha be a big blow?

Since arriving from Rennes in October 2020, Raphinha has established himself as one of the most exciting and promising attacking forces in the Premier League.

In 59 appearances for Jesse Marsch’s charges across all competitions, he has registered 15 goals and 12 assists, firing them to a ninth-placed finish last term.

Leeds have found life in the top-flight much tougher this time around, but Raphinha has continued to excel, racking up 12 goal contributions, by far the most amongst his teammates.

Therefore, losing Raphinha would come as a bitter blow for Leeds and Marsch as they look to continue making progress on the pitch.