Manchester United hero Paul Parker joins Erik ten Hag in Raphinha signing | Soccer

Raphinha, 26, has done well in the Premier League since joining Elland Road from Rennes in 2020 and has emerged as a top target for Barcelona.

Meanwhile, the Red Devils are looking to strengthen their squad after a disappointing season that saw them finish sixth in the Premier League and without a trophy.

Parker, the former United star, believes new manager Erik ten Hag should join Barcelona in the race to sign Raphinha as the club’s current strikers are underperforming.

“He plays impromptu. He improvises. So I would say he is everything that makes Manchester United what it is.

“If you look at Manchester United’s wide players, none of them really did much. Only one player has really made an impression as a winger but he’s inexperienced and needs to work with better players, more honest players and more professional senior pros and that’s (Anthony) Elanga.

“Raphinha would be a very, very good signing for Man Utd – it makes sense.”

Despite Leeds flirting with relegation last season, Raphinha was one of their brightest players, scoring 11 goals in 35 games.

Two years ago, the Brazilian was signed by Leeds for an estimated fee of £17m but could now cost up to double that, according to reports.

United already have the likes of Jadon Sancho, Marcus Rashford and Anthony Elanga to choose from so Ten Hag may prioritize other areas this summer.

United’s midfield was heavily criticized last season and has been linked to moves from Wolves’ Ruben Neves and West Ham’s Declan Rice.

Meanwhile, a new centre-forward is also said to be high on Ten Hag’s list, with Benfica’s Darwin Nunez reportedly being considered.

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