Leeds United have confirmed that negotiations are on-going with a view to a possible summer signing.
Leeds United’s on-loan playmaker Marc Roca says his representatives are talking to Real Betis about a permanent move to Elland Road.
The former Bayern Munich man joined the Peacocks on a one-year deal worth £10m during the summer of 2022, after struggling to get regular first-team football in Germany.
Roca played a key role in Leeds’ promotion to the second tier last season, but for the wrong reasons. The Yorkshire club, who spent around £100m at the start of the campaign, were relegated back to the second tier after spending just under £100m.
Roca was one of a number of players who had a relegation clause in their contract. The clause prevented Roca from playing for Leeds in the Championship and protected him from a 60% wage cut.
After Sevilla’s relegation, Roca was loaned out to Real Betis, but there was no option to buy. Despite this, he has been enjoying life in Seville. Speaking to PTV Sevilla recently, Roca admitted that talks are taking place with Betis, but that there are many issues with the deal. He added, “We’ll see what happens (with my future). We’re in touch with the club, but it’s up to my agent. Betis will need to talk to Leeds, and we’ll see how it goes. It’s not like’sign here’ and that’s it. There are lots of contracts, lots of interest from different clubs, and everyone wants to make the best of it. I’m waiting, looking at things from the outside, and my job is to keep working hard. I’m living in the moment.
Leeds still have a say in whether Roca sticks around or goes, as long as they get promotion back to the top flight.
Roca would be a good fit for Daniel Farke’s system, as he has excellent passing range and is composed under pressure.
It would be in the best interests of both parties if the two clubs came to an agreement on a price so that Roca can move back home for good.
