Richarlison, Raphinha, Both, or Neither; What’s next for Tottenham?

What would Raphinha look like in lily-white? 

Raphinha is unquestionably Leeds’s star man, hence his apparent £65 million valuation, but unlike Richarlison, there is expected to be fierce competition for his signature.

Barcelona has reportedly had personal terms agreed since January but cannot meet Leeds’s demands, whilst Arsenal has already tried and failed with a bid.

Tottenham has informed Leeds of our intention to bid, while Chelsea apparently considered moving the for Brazilian but may now favour Sterling again.

Nevertheless, he is a wanted man.

His ability on the ball is unquestionable, as he can beat men at will and gets shots away regularly, averaging over 2.5 per game, but his versatility may be a limitation.

Raphinha only plays on the right, and at least to me, it doesn’t make sense for us to bring in another right-sided forward considering we have Kulusevski – who we have still to pay for, although Lucas Moura, and Steven Bergwijn, may be expected to leave.

However, if we intend to bid, Conte must have plans for the Brazilian, and as fans having collectively cried out for him to be backed in the market, if Raphinha is the man he wants, that’s as good a selling point as we should need.

On paper, in terms of output, value, age, and contractual situation, there is little between the two, so it comes down to personal preference.

Richarlison’s ability to play across the frontline gives him the edge for me, but given the state of play over the last few days, it looks as though Conte’s preference is Raphinha.

In truth, either would be a good signing and would represent the fourth top-quality forward that, although somewhat harsh on Lucas and Bergwijn, we are badly needing. Now, it’s over to Conte and Paratici to make it happen and continue our so far barnstorming summer window.