Leeds United winger Raphinha has asked the club for permission to miss their upcoming pre-season tour amidst links of a transfer away, according to a report.
The Brazilian is being heavily linked with the likes of Chelsea and Barcelona following a fine 2021-22 Premier League campaign, in which he scored 11 goals and registered three assists in 35 league appearances.
Such form has seen the winger break into the senior national side for Brazil, as well as leading to interest from some of Europe's top sides.
As a result of the reported interest, Raphinha has requested to stay behind when the rest of the side travel to Australia for their pre-season tour, according to the Daily Mail.
Leeds boss Jesse Marsch had previously admitted that he "did not know" whether Raphinha would be linking up with his teammates in Australia due to his desire to secure a move away from Elland Road during the transfer window.
Chelsea are said to have had a bid in the region of £60m accepted by Leeds for the 25-year-old, but Barcelona remain hugely keen despite their ongoing financial issues, and are said to have lodged a final bid in the region of £46.6m for the winger.
Matthew Tranter
