Leeds United has received a bid of approximately £5 million from Real Betis for defender Diego Llorente, as reported by Il Messaggero. The Italian newspaper, through its online edition on June 30, revealed that Betis is keen on securing the former Real Madrid player’s services on a permanent basis. Betis has reportedly offered €6 million (£5.1 million) for Llorente, who spent the 2023-24 season on loan with Roma.
If this transfer materializes, Llorente would reunite with his former teammate Marc Roca, who recently completed a move to Manuel Pellegrini’s squad after spending the 2023-24 season on loan with them. Leeds United is facing a busy period in the transfer market, partly due to the ongoing transfer saga involving their young talent, Archie Gray. On June 29, reports suggested that the 18-year-old was set for a £40 million transfer to Brentford, though the situation remains fluid with many developments. It appears likely that Gray will eventually leave, with £40 million being the target figure.
Selling Llorente could be advantageous for Leeds United. The Spanish defender has been away from the club for the past 18 months, playing for Roma. Therefore, his departure might not significantly impact the team. Additionally, the future of Max Wober remains uncertain. The £5 million fee from Betis would help alleviate Leeds’ financial concerns and enable them to reinvest in strengthening the squad.
In other news concerning Leeds, the club has set its terms for the potential departure of goalkeeper Illan Meslier this summer.