Raphinha has promised Leeds fans he will not leave to join Liverpool or Manchester United – even though he has close pals at both clubs.
Raphinha has attracted interest from Liverpool and United because of his impressive first season for Leeds and the Brazilian winger scored six goals and made nine assists in the Premier League.
He knows compatriots Roberto Firmino, Alisson and Fabinho at Liverpool, while he is close to United star Bruno Fernandes from their season together at Sporting Lisbon.
Raphinha, 24, has three years left on the contract he signed when he joined for £17million from Rennes and insists he is not contemplating leaving Leeds.
“It is difficult to define how I feel when I hear speculation about giant teams like Liverpool and Manchester United being interested in signing me,” he told UOL Sport in Brazil.
“I grew up watching these teams on television. I saw Rooney, Van Nistelrooy, Cristiano Ronaldo, but I also saw Gerrard, as well as others like Henry, Deco, Lampard.
“Leeds was the one who bet on me. They are very happy, including the fans who seem to have a great affection for me.
“I have a contract for another four years and I don't even think about leaving here for exactly this reason: I’m happy and I’m making others happy.”
Raphinha is particularly close to Firmino and revealed the Reds striker was the first person to congratulate him on his move to Leeds.
“It’s funny that I have friends in both clubs,” he said. “Bruno Fernandes played with me for a year that seemed like many more at Sporting. He became almost an older brother.
“We talk every day, not about football, just our antics. Even from a distance, it helps me a lot.
“At United there’s Alex Telles. I do not know how many times I’ve played against him, but always with respect. There’s Fred, who’s from the south too.
“In Liverpool there is Alisson, who is from the south too, and Fabinho, who is from the same place as Firmino and I.
“In fact, did you know that Firmino was the first guy who texted me when I came here? He’s a great friend.”
