It’s reported a central striker is Erik ten Hag’s first priority. However, their efforts to snare Darwin Nunez appear to be failing and Cristiano Ronaldo remains on the books.

If they’re unable to land the striker they desire, a ‘left-footed right forward’ will be targeted and Raphinha fits that bill.

Speculation has swirled as to the presence of cut-price release clauses in several Leeds contracts if they go down.

While reports have not confirmed if Raphinha is one of those affected, it’s been widely reported elsewhere he can leave for just £25m in that scenario.

His reduced price is also of great interest to Man Utd who won’t have Champions League football boosting their coffers.

The rivalry between Leeds and Man Utd is acknowledged as complicating a move. That bitterness has regularly been touted as the reason why Kalvin Phillips won’t move to Man Utd. However, Phillips is a boyhood Leeds fan and Raphinha’s loyalties may not be as firm.

The Red Devils are described as ‘monitoring’ Raphinha’s situation, though he won’t be the only forward to leave if Leeds are relegated.

With Man Utd poised to embark on a rebuild under Erik ten Hag, all eyes will be on who the club sign to kick the new era off in style.

Raphinha would certainly be an eye-catching arrival and would remedy their issues down the right flank. Mason Greenwood had operated to great effect in that position, though he remains absent indefinitely.

Complicating matters for United is long-standing interest in Raphinha from Barcelona. The Brazilian’s agent – Deco – has strong connections at his former club and Barca will be hopeful of making a headline-grabbing addition of their own if Real Madrid sign Kylian Mbappe

Regardless, Raphinha’s future may yet remain in West Yorkshire if Leeds better Burnley’s result on Sunday. Results on that day could determine far more than just which league Leeds play in next season.