Raphinha left out of Leeds pre-season squad as transfer situation drags on

Leeds United have confirmed that Raphinha has not been selected to join the side on their pre-season tour as clubs continue to battle to secure a transfer.

The Brazilian midfielder has long been linked with a move away from Elland Road, with the likes of Barcelona and Chelsea battling for his signature. It was reported that the Blues had agreed a fee with their Premier League rivals regarding a potential switch but Raphinha was biding his time to see if the Catalan giants made a move.

As that wait continues, Leeds have made the decision to leave the former Rennes star behind as they prepare to jet away to Australia as they continue their pre-season schedule.

Alongside a squad list that excluded Raphinha, a club statement read: "Leeds United head coach Jesse Marsch has selected his 26-man squad for Leeds United's pre-season tour of Australia. The Whites will play three games Down Under, against Brisbane Roar, Aston Villa and Crystal Palace.

"The remainder of the squad not travelling to Australia will continue pre-season preparations at Thorp Arch."

It of course remains to be seen whether Raphinha is able to complete a move away before the club return from their excursions. They have already lost a key player this summer in the form of midfielder Kalvin Phillips.

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The Leeds academy graduate completed a big-money move to Manchester City earlier this summer and signed a six-year deal at the Etihad Stadium.

Of course, they will not be keen on losing Raphinha too. The Brazilian has caught the eye with his performances over the past two seasons since his arrival.

He was key to Leeds avoiding relegation to the Championship last term having netted 11 goals - one of them coming in a vital 2-1 victory over Brentford on the final day of the 2021/22 campaign. He still has two years remaining on his contract with the club.

Whilst Chelsea remain firmly in the battle to secure the Brazilian's services, it appears that they have alternatives in mind. A deal is in place for Manchester City star Raheem Sterling, with the Blues edging close to secure his £45m arrival from the Etihad Stadium.

In the meantime, Ousmane Dembele continues to be linked with a switch to west London this summer. The Frenchman's contract at Barcelona has already expired and he can be picked up as a free agent however recent reports have suggested that he has agreed to stay with the Spanish champions.

Barca have of course been busy themselves in the current window having secured the free transfer arrivals of Franck Kessie and Andreas Christensen from AC Milan respectively. They also continue their pursuit of Robert Lewandowski after the Pole expressed his desire to leave Bayern Munich this summer.