Douglas Costa: What could he bring to Leeds United and how does he compare to Raphinha?

Douglas Costa. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)

If reports from abroad are to be believed, Leeds United could be lining up an ambitious move for Brazilian winger Douglas Costa.

The hype surrounding current Elland Road wide man Raphinha has begun to gain real momentum in recent weeks, and despite the player only arriving in England over the summer, Football Insider claim that Jurgen Klopp’s ailing champions Liverpool could be tempted into launching a raid for the 24-year-old.

With that in mind, the meticulous Marcelo Bielsa is already said to be looking for potential replacements for the former Rennes man, and that’s where Costa comes in.

According to Fichajes, the 30-year-old is the Argentine's preferred option – or as they put it, albeit in somewhat melodramatic terms, his “chosen one”.

Douglas Costa Shot Map 2020/21. (Wyscout)

Costa is said to be top of Bielsa’s wishlist, and a cursory glance at his CV hints at an abundance of pedigree.

Currently on loan at Bayern Munich from Juventus, the winger has spent his time alternating between the two clubs in recent seasons, and has amassed 31 caps for his country in the process.

But beyond the glitz and glamour of his resume, what would he offer Leeds United were a deal to come off?

We’ve taken a closer look at Costa to see what he’s got in his locker, and how he measures up compared to his compatriot, Raphinha.

Douglas Costa Pass Map vs Lokomotiv Moscow, December 9th 2020. Costa completed 45 out of an attempted 51 passes at a success rate of 88%. (Wyscout)

Is Costa a goal threat?

One of the most pleasing aspects of Raphinha’s debut season at Elland Road has been his tendency to chip in with a strike or two.

The 24-year-old has scored four goals in 16 Premier League matches so far, with important contributions against the likes of Newcastle United and Everton.