Leeds United's two most impactful and influential players were always likely to attract attention from wealthy onlookers - as well as their national sides.
Kalvin Phillips and Raphinha are two of the current squad's most sought-after players, but as yet there are no signs either will be leaving Elland Road.
The club are reportedly in talks with both over the signing of new contracts at Leeds United, however until the pair sign on their respective dotted lines, supporters wait with baited breath.
Nevertheless, when Phillips returns from a hamstring injury in March, the duo will likely see out yet another Premier League season on the same side.
While last season's late push for the top half seems more improbable this year, finishing above the drop-zone and consolidating 2020/21's finish would represent relative success and achievement of the Board's primary goal two years on from promotion.
With the final round of Premier League fixtures set to take place on May 22, 2022, players throughout the league will be securing some much-needed downtime abroad with their friends and family.
That is, unless they are also international footballers.
Kalvin Phillips has been an England mainstay over the past 12 months, while Raphinha's emergence as a major player for the Brazilian national team means it is likely both will be involved in June's international friendly fixtures.
Confederations and football associations will be gearing up for the winter World Cup in Qatar, organising friendlies with other nations set to compete at the tournament in late November and early December.
According to Brazilian outlet Globo, Leeds duo Raphinha and Phillips may well be on opposing sides when a friendly takes place between their two nations at the end of May.
The fixture is set to take place at Wembley Stadium one week after the conclusion of the Premier League season.
"The interim president of the CBF said that the intention is to hold the friendly on May 31, a day after the start of the FIFA date, when the athletes would have to present themselves to the coaches," Globo report.
"The timetable is tight. In June, the English play on the 4th, 7th, 11th and 14th [in] the Nations League."
Given the pair's involvement with their respective nations in recent international breaks, it is safe to assume that - injuries permitting - both could feature on opposing sides this summer.
