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Could the young Ireland star be on the move?

The latest transfer news from Leeds United could have a major implication on the future of Derby County and Ireland midfielder Jason Knight.

Many speculated that if Leeds were to be relegated, Raphinha was a certainty to leave the club, with a whole number of European giants interested in the Brazilian.

Manchester United, Liverpool, Barcelona and Arsenal are all among those who have been linked with him in the past, and it is believed that they would have been able to pick up the winger for a reduced fee if Leeds went down.

However, they managed to stay up on the final day of the season, largely thanks to a crucial Raphinha penalty.

His celebrations after the game were nothing short of incredible, and it would be safe to assume that he is happy in Leeds based on how much survival clearly meant to him.

But his side staying up has not deterred other clubs from keeping an interest in him, with Man United and Barcelona still swooping around.

Given he will be more expensive than he would have if Leeds were relegated, Jesse Marsch and co. may be more willing to sell him and reinvest in other areas of the squad.

jason knight leeds

Jason Knight to Leeds

This could pave the way for young Jason Knight to get his move.

Leeds have reportedly been interested in Knight for a while now, and given Derby were just relegated to League One, it does seem like a deal that would make sense.

If Raphinha goes, it will also leave a gap in the team for some real quality replacements, and while Knight is certainly nowhere near as dangerous as the Brazilian going forward, he can play out wide.

Given Leeds know they need to strengthen if they wish to stay up this season, Knight’s arrival at the club does seem more and more likely by the day, especially seeing as he is way too good to be playing in League One.

Read next: Stephen Kenny explains why the Nations League is important for Ireland

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