Leeds United's deadline day signing Raphinha has only been at Elland Road for a matter of months, but is already being discussed amongst some of the best players ever to feature for the Whites in the Premier League.
The Brazilian has been a sight to behold, albeit in empty stadiums, performing audacious pieces of trickery on veteran defenders, working harder than his direct opposition and leading by example.
Leeds signed the 24-year-old from Stade Rennais in October of last year finalising a deal late in the window.
Speaking to the LUFC Fanzone Podcast, Raphinha's agent, and former international footballer Deco, has digressed on the deal which brought the vivacious, aggressive Brazilian to Elland Road.
"I don't know why but I remember at the beginning they [Rennes] do not want to sell Raphinha, they want to wait a minimum one year more.
"When I spoke with the club, one week to the close of the transfer window, they say to me they maybe could think about this move for Raphinha.
"I start to work I spoke with Leeds, because I know Victor Orta likes him very well and Victor call me and say, 'okay maybe it's possible or not, we'll see'. It was fast, but like I say in football, sometimes there are [these] kind of opportunities," Deco said.
Clearly, Victor Orta - Leeds United's enigmatic and colourful Director of Football played an important part in securing Raphinha's signature.
Deco explains that Orta and the club's hierarchy's clear desire for the player was a big part of Raphinha's decision to sign.
"In football sometimes, it's important when someone wants you - really wants you - and Leeds they showed how much they want Raphinha.
"That's why it was important for him. He was happy, he saw the people when they call, Victor [Orta] and the President they call him and want him and this is important for the player too.
"That's why they convinced Raphinha to come," the Portuguese international-turned agent added.
Raphinha has scored five goals and registered five assists in the Premier League this season, setting himself apart as one of the league's standout players.
For obvious reasons, this has reportedly attracted interest from other clubs, but Deco insists the player is happy at Leeds.
"I believe Leeds they made a good decision and he's adapted very well and he's happy there."
