Feyenoord’s Igor Paixão, widely linked with a move to Leeds United, has been warned not to buy into the comparisons with former Leeds star Raphinha. That’s the view of Dutch journalist Bas van den Hoven, speaking to Voetbal International via 1908.nl.
Leeds are pursuing Paixão as their top winger target this summer and have already held talks with his agents in a bid to push a deal forward. Their second bid—following a first rejected offer—could now be closing the gap with Feyenoord’s valuation.
Van den Hoven Issues Caution Over Raphinha Narrative
Leeds have drawn on the success of Raphinha—who used Elland Road as a springboard into Premier League stardom and later Barcelona—as part of their recruitment pitch for Paixão. But Bas van den Hoven warns that the story may paint an overly optimistic picture:
“I wouldn’t do it,” he told Voetbal International. “Leeds is now one of the three newcomers. There’s a good chance you’ll have to go back to Championship after a year or make a transfer.
Is that the move that offers the most peace of mind?
… Raphinha was used as an example… but they signed Hélder Costa in 2020 for a lot of money, and he’s now a free agent. There are plenty of examples that didn’t work out so well.”
Van den Hoven urged Paixão to weigh alternatives—particularly clubs competing in the Champions League or top Bundesliga sides—rather than be swayed purely by the Raphinha narrative.
Why Leeds Still Believe Paixão Fits the Farke Model
Despite the warning, Leeds believe Paixão offers exactly the type of final‑third threat Farke needs. Last season he produced a combined 30+ goal involvements for Feyenoord, impressing in both the Eredivisie and Champions League and drawing admirers across Europe.
Daniel Farke is building a physical, pressing-minded squad designed to compete in the Premier League immediately and is targeting Paixão to boost creativity and goal threat from wide areas.
Igor Paixão – 2024/25 Eredivisie Stats
| Stat (2024/25) | Igor Paixão |
|---|---|
| Games | 34 |
| Goals | 16 |
| Assists | 14 |
| Minutes per Goal | 180 |
| Minutes Played | 2882 |
Analyst Verdict
While the Raphinha story is compelling, not every transfer follows that blueprint. Paixão’s quality and potential speak for themselves, but Leeds must ensure the move is about fit—not nostalgia. If he joins, Paixão must be given tactical responsibility and not expected to simply replicate Raphinha’s path. Done right, this deal could be transformative—but if mishandled, the comparisons will be remembered more than the performances.
Key Insights
- Bas van den Hoven warns Paixão against expecting Leeds to offer a repeat of Raphinha’s success
- Leeds have placed a second bid and are in advanced negotiations with Feyenoord
- Despite comparisons being used as part of the recruitment approach, Tiger van den Hoven remains sceptical
- Paixão delivered more than 30 direct goal involvements last season across competitions
- Alternative routes—like top German or continental clubs—could offer more stability and Champions League football
What’s Next?
Leeds await Feyenoord’s response to their improved offer, while Paixão’s camp continues assessing the best move. Transfer momentum could shift in the coming days if other clubs enter the race or if Feyenoord decide to increase their valuation. Van den Hoven’s comments may give Paixão pause—but Leeds still have faith their project will win him over.
Should Paixão consider alternatives that guarantee Champions League football—or is the Leeds project still the right fit for his Premier League breakthrough?
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