Girona have now joined the race to sign Leeds United midfielder Marc Roca this summer.
That is according to Estadio Deportivo, who report while Real Betis remain very keen on Roca, Girona are in a better financial position to make a move, making them a serious competitor.
It is said the Catalan outfit have a ‘greater salary margin and immediate availability of funds’ than Betis thanks to investment from the City Group, which of course is also involved with treble winners Manchester City.
Roca had looked all but set for a move to Betis, with an agreement described as ‘imminent’ earlier this week, however salary issues at the Spanish side have put the deal on hold.
Betis has the advantage of playing European football next season, though the financial power of Girona just may tip the balance in their favour.
Girona keen on Roca
From Leeds’ perspective, the more interest in Roca, the better as ultimately, it could lead to a bidding war and therefore a better deal for the club.
Betis have been long-term admirers of Roca and he may well be the player’s first choice, but if Girona are offering a better financial package, Leeds should do all they can to encourage him to go there.
Unless there is an obligation to buy at the end of it, loan deals are not much good to Leeds this summer, and with the backing of the City Group, Girona could potentially offer a permanent switch.
It is reported Girona’s contacts with Roca’s ‘environment’ are currently more ‘advanced’ and they are doing all they can to win the race.
Roca is one of several expected to seal an exit from Leeds this summer after relegation, and given the interest, could well be the first to go.
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