Leeds United defender Diego Llorente has backed teammate Raphinha to be a star for Barcelona, should he move to the Nou Camp this summer.
Raphinha was once again the outstanding player at Elland Road this season, with a series of impressive performances key to them avoiding relegation.
It appears his time at the club has come to an end, though, with Barcelona making him their priority signing for the summer transfer window.
They’ve been pursuing a move for months, with the player’s agent, former Barca midfielder Deco, helping to facilitate things.
Numerous reports from Spain have made it clear that Raphinha is keen on the move and has even told Leeds he wants to make it happen at all costs.
Whether it does remains to be seen as the Catalan giants are in a precarious financial position and currently unable to match Leeds’ demands for their star man, which are believed to be around €40m.
If he does move, though, Llorente is backing him to light up the Nou Camp in the same way he has Elland Road.
“He’s a player who is a typical winger with an edge, which is becoming more and more difficult to find,” he told Sport.
“He’s not afraid to face the opponent again and again. He has a lot of skills. Because of the style of the Premier League, where there is more space than the Spanish League, he stands out a lot. I am very grateful for his work and professionalism.
“Of course, he has the skills to do it (shine for Barcelona), then all parties must understand each other to benefit all of us. But I see his qualities for a top club.”
