Liverpool have reportedly held a long-term interest in Raphinha, and now a new update has emerged from a reliable source on the player's future.

What's the latest?

Italian journalist and transfer insider Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Chelsea have tabled a bid for Leeds United star Raphinha.

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Romano tweeted last night: "Chelsea have already sent an official proposal to Raphinha and his agent Deco to discuss personal terms as Boehly wants to be fast to avoid problems. Work in progress."

Following up this morning with further details:

"Raphinha - Chelsea proposal, on the table since yesterday night. Boehly wanted contract bid to be sent right after £60m agreement with Leeds. Contract offered until June 2027."

Supporters will be gutted

With the doubt surrounding Mohamed Salah's future at Liverpool beyond the 12 months remaining on his contract, Raphinha was thought to be a worthy replacement for the Egyptian star with bids from Anfield reported to be rejected so far, supporters will surely be gutted to see the Brazilian go to a Premier League rival.

The winger has been impressive with his performances for Leeds United over the last two seasons after joining the West Yorkshire club upon their promotion into the top flight in 2020.

Raphinha has scored 22 goals and delivered 13 assists during his time at his current club, with a goal contribution every 168 minutes, but it's not just his consistent goal contributions that make him an ideal player for the future at Liverpool.

According to FBref, in the Premier League last season Raphinha ranked ninth for shots on goal (85), crosses completed (90) and shot-creating actions (119), as well as ranking seventh for key passes (65), proving that the 25-year-old is a consistent attacking threat with the potential to compete to be one of the best forwards in the league.

Liverpool will need to begin to prepare for the expected departure of Salah next summer, and if the worst-case scenario does occur, a player like Raphinha might not offer the same number of goals as the Egyptian winger, but he could surely develop in the team whilst offering a number of talents he has already displayed.

With that being said, it is now looking likely that Raphinha will make the move to Chelsea which will require FSG to look elsewhere for their potential Salah replacements ahead of next summer, something that will leave supporters rather gutted.

AND in other news: Klopp can land his own Tchouameni as Liverpool now plot £5m offer for "absolute star"