Bielsa reason why Brazilian decided to join Leeds
LEEDS UNITED deadline- day signing Raphinha says he is looking forward to being “worked to the limit” by Marcelo Bielsa.
The 23- year- old Brazilian winger joined from Rennes for a deal thought to be worth an initial fee of around £ 15.5m, with add- ons to come.
He has turned his back on Champions League football to join, and in keeping with most Leeds signings, cited Bielsa as his reason for coming. “From what I’ve been told he’s a very demanding coach who really works players to the limit,” he said.
“This is a new challenge for me. I like this type of demand on a player so I will give my all and the result will be a good one.
“Without a doubt, it’s a very important next step in my career. All players dream of coming to the Premier League and for me it is a dream come true.
“I think I can show Raphinha’s football to the fans and make them happy and in terms of helping Leeds to make the next step without a doubt I’ll give my all. I will contribute to the group so we can meet our objectives.”
West Bromwich Albion, who went up with Leeds last season, still want Huddersfield Town striker Karlan Grant.
Grant was Town’s top- scorer last season but the 23- year- old has yet to play this time.
His future is expected to be decided before the clubs resume action after the international break but the Baggies’ need for another forward has become more pressing.
That is because Hal RobsonKanu will undergo surgery today to rectify a broken arm sustained in Sunday’s loss at Southampton.
The Wales international was introduced on the hour mark at St Mary’s and picked up the injury during his 30- minute cameo.
Despite the issue, he finished the game but was unable to prevent Slaven Bilic’s team losing 2- 0.
An early assessment of the injury saw Robson- Kanu unable to join Wales for their triple- header this month and he is now set for a spell on the sidelines while he undergoes rehabilitation.
“An X- ray has since confirmed the break to Robson- Kanu’s right arm and he will undergo surgery to rectify the injury on Wednesday,” read a club statement.
The 31- year- old forward has played five times for West Brom this season in all competitions and scored three goals in the Carabao Cup.