Report reveals why Leeds thought Raphinha was scared to join Spurs under Conte
Senior figures at Leeds United believed Raphinha feared Antonio Conte would play him in a wing-back role at Tottenham after they showed interest in a transfer this summer, according to The Athletic. The report suggests that Spurs had a player-plus-cash offer knocked back by the Whites while the Brazil winger, who has since sealed a […]
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Senior figures at Leeds United believed Raphinha feared Antonio Conte would play him in a wing-back role at Tottenham after they showed interest in a transfer this summer, according to The Athletic.
The report suggests that Spurs had a player-plus-cash offer knocked back by the Whites while the Brazil winger, who has since sealed a move to Barcelona, was not keen on the switch himself.
It is claimed Raphinha had reservations about moving to north London and was made to feel uncomfortable due to fears that Spurs coach Conte would use him in a non-favoured wing-back role.
The 25-year-old completed a transfer to Barcelona this week in a deal worth £55 million (The Athletic) after two seasons for Leeds which saw him tally 17 goals and 12 assists (Transfermarkt).
The Sun previously claimed Raphinha had attracted interest from Tottenham, Arsenal and Chelsea, although the London trio have since turned their attention elsewhere.
Spurs moved for Raphinha’s compatriot Richarlison who was signed in a £60 million package from Everton (The Guardian), while Arsenal and Chelsea have acquired Gabriel Jesus and Raheem Sterling respectively.
Conte utilised Lucas Moura in the unfamiliar role of right wing-back in yesterday’s 1-1 draw against Sevilla in South Korea.
Spurs Web Opinion
If this is true, this is pretty disappointing as Raphinha would have added plenty of quality to the wide areas for Spurs.
But you would imagine Conte won’t have wanted to restrict the qualities of an attacking player like that – especially after it was reported that Spurs would be in the market for a dedicated wing-back.
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