Leeds United midfielder Marc Roca has long been linked with a move to La Liga side Real Betis and it appears this deal is close to completion, according to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano.
Roca was brought in for the Whites last summer from Bayern Munich for an approximate £10m fee in a bid to strengthen a struggling midfield.
And despite making a total of 32 Premier League appearances for Leeds last season, it is difficult to say that he ever lived up to expectation. Having been touted as a top talent by Munich when they bought him in 2020, Leeds fans were understandably disappointed with the 1 goal and 2 assists he produced whilst in West Yorkshire.
Now, it appears as if Roca is due for a return to his native Spain, as he looks set to join Manuel Pellegrini’s Real Betis outfit on a season long loan.
An ideal move for the 26-year-old who is keen on representing his country in next year’s European Championships, as well as new Leeds boss Daniel Farke who will be keen to get the Spaniard’s wages off the bill as he seeks new midfield reinforcements.
According to a tweet from Romano, Roca’s deal with Betis also has an option to buy clause included. The Spanish side are believed to be working on outgoing transfers before announcing incomings, which include Hector Bellerín alongside the Leeds midfield man.
“Betis have full agreement in place with Leeds United for Marc Roca to join on loan with buy option clause,” Romano wrote.
“Hector Bellerín has also agreed terms with Betis days ago, he’s ready to return at the club.
“Betis, working to complete outgoings before announcing new signing.”
If Roca completes the switch to Betis as expected he will join a significant list of players already loaned out by Leeds this summer, including defenders Robin Koch and Diego Llorente, as well as midfielder Brenden Aaronson.
