Leeds United boss Marcelo Bielsa is still hopeful that Raphinha could be available for selection in Sunday afternoon's Premier League clash with Liverpool at Elland Road.
As it stands, the attacker is suspended due to a FIFA-imposed ban which relates to the 24-year-old not joining up with the Brazil squad for the latest international break.
Leeds, and a number of other clubs in similar situations, are currently holding talks in the hope that an agreement can be reached before this weekend's fixtures.
Bielsa, speaking during his pre-match press conference on Friday, suggested that there was still a chance that the South American could be involved against Jurgen Klopp's side.
"The uncertainty was not difficult to prepare the game. He plays depending on what the club transmits to me," Bielsa told reporters.
Raphinha has been a key player for Leeds since arriving from Rennes in 2020, scoring seven times and contributing nine assists in 34 appearances in all competitions.
Matt Law
