Leeds United midfielder Marc Roca’s long-mooted move to Real Betis has now been confirmed, with the Spaniard set to join the La Liga side on a season-long loan.
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.
It is believed that an option-to-buy clause exists within Roca’s loan deal as he links up with Manuel Pellegrini’s side, as per a tweet from Fabrizio Romano.
It is 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 books as he seeks new midfield reinforcements.
Given that Betis finished sixth in La Liga last season, Roca’s switch may see him making appearances for the Spanish outfit in the Europa League this term.
A Leeds United statement confirming the departure read: “Leeds United can confirm Marc Roca has today joined Real Betis on loan until the end of the end of the 2023/24 season.
“The 26-year-old joined the Whites from Bayern Munich 12 months ago and made 36 appearances in all competitions during the last campaign.
“He now makes the move to La Liga, with Betis, who finished sixth in Spain’s top-flight last season.
“We wish Marc good luck during his time at the Benito Villamarin Stadium.”
Roca becomes the latest addition to a significant list of player departures from Leeds this transfer window, following Tyler Roberts, Robin Koch, Diego Llorente, Brenden Aaronson, Rasmus Kristensen and Rodrigo out of the exit door.
