A rather quiet transfer window for Leeds United so far has only seen a couple of moves made in pursuit of their upcoming Premier League survival campaign, but one Brazilian gem who they have had their eye on for some time could be getting closer and closer to a move to Elland Road. And much like in 2020, a Brazilian winger may be poised to light up Yorkshire, much like world-beater Raphina once did. But, with Raphina’s form at Leeds difficult to match, can Feyenoord’s Igor Paixao be the next Raphina for Leeds?
Daniel Farke’s newly promoted Leeds United have been heavily focused on defensive upgrades in this year's summer window, and are still continuing to bolster their back end. Although, as time goes on, they have now moved heavy focus to Marseille and Arsenal transfer target, Brazilian winger Igor Paixao. Paixao has had a breakout season this year with Feyenoord, and has had some pretty heavy European interest over the last couple of months, but the 25 year old who has often been called ‘the next Raphina’, and has a play style way to similar to the former Leeds winger, Whites fans will hope they can get their hands on him this summer.
Leeds fans will always remember Raphina’s breakout year in the Premier League, and are proud to see what he has gone on to do, but with Paixao the new name on the block, the reigning Dutch footballer of the year will likely reach a fee of £0-35 million this summer, a fee Leeds likely will be up for. With bids already flying in, it looks like the £30 million cap they have set won't be decreased, a fee Marseille were not prepared to reach. Arsenal and Napoli, two title fighting giants have also shown interest, but have no concrete bids on the table, Leeds on the other hand could be ready at an instant to trigger the fee.
The tricky, and versatile winger is definitely a Premier League first, and could definitely be the dynamic winger Leeds need to make goals happen. His small size, quick feet and confidence in 1 on 1 situations make him a star already, and with much more still to offer, and unhatched potential waiting to bloom, Paixao is 100% one of the most desirable wingers on the market. Not only is his footwork and overall play immaculate, his goal scoring and playmaking abilities were highlighted last season after scoring 16 goals, and totalling 14 assists in 34 games, and similar to Raphina, can be dangerous at any part of the pitch, and a threat to the entire defensive line. But on top of his skill and scoring, his pressing and work rate is without a doubt Premier League ready, his end product and movement is something most European clubs would die for, and his similarities to Raphina are almost unfathomable.
When Raphina headed to Leeds, his passion, energy, and love for the club was what made him so lovable for fans, and the exact same feelings could come with Paixao. His drive to succeed, his non stop work rate to make sure he is a fan favourite is something only Leeds fans can love you for, and his classic Brazilian flair will put fans in seats. In a way, Paixao is just a little less polished version of Raphina. But, like we saw with Raphina, that final polish may come with Leeds, making this transfer a potentially club changing deal, and exactly like Raphina, may elevate Leeds to heights they couldn't imagine this year.
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