Leeds United won't be letting Raphinha leave this January transfer window with less than 48 hours to go...

What's the word?

That's according to Italian journalist and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, who delivered a promising update from Elland Road to social media this weekend.

"Leeds have no intention to sell Brazilian winger Raphinha in January. West Ham asked for him but deal looks more than complicated, as per @JacobSteinberg," he revealed.

"Leeds are still thinking of Takumi Minamino on loan from Liverpool in case Summerville will leave the club."

Great news

Raphinha's form this campaign will have certainly attracted suitors, though the Irons' interest comes as a massive surprise given David Moyes' options.

However, Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich and Premier League rivals Liverpool have also been linked with a move for the Brazil international, who has practically carried the Yorkshire giants on his back this term.

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As per WhoScored, the 25-year-old winger leads the way for goals (eight), assists (two), crosses (1.2 per game), key passes (2.1 per game), dribbles (2.4 per game), and shots (3.1 per game).

He has really stepped up to the mark during the absence of last season's top scorer Patrick Bamford.

Losing Raphinha would deal Marcelo Bielsa and the squad a big blow to their chances of remaining in the big time for a third successive season, that's for sure.

There have also been suggestions of the former Stade Rennes star signing an extension to his £63k-per-week-deal with two-and-a-half years remaining, which would put the Yorkshire outfit in a pretty powerful position going into future transfer windows.

His value has soared to £36m, having been signed for nearly half that (£17m) back in October 2020.

Dubbed a "magician" and an "unbelievable player" by his peers, it appears as if Raphinha will see the season out, at the very least, and that'll leave supporters around Elland Road absolutely delighted.

There won't be anyone disappointed by Romano's latest update.

AND in other news, Phil Hay drops worrying Leeds United transfer claim ahead of deadline day...