Spanish outlet COPE report that Real Madrid have moved on from their interest in Espanyol striker Joselu to target a deal for Leeds United striker Rodrigo Moreno this summer – as they look to replace recently-released Mariano Diaz.
Indeed, Mariano is a player that may be accustomed to Leeds fans, having been linked with a move to Elland Road himself in recent seasons. Now, Mariano is a free agent and with Karim Benzema departing, Madrid need strikers.
The report claims that Rodrigo is the man Madrid want to bring in to replace Mariano, as Benzema’s cover. Madrid are likely to go after a big-name striker to replace the veteran Frenchman – with Tottenham’s Harry Kane linked.
They also want Rodrigo, who this week has won back his place in Spain’s National Team. COPE say Real can sign Rodrigo for just £3m – a ninth of the £27m fee Leeds paid Valencia in 2020 – due to a relegation release clause.
Real Madrid target bargain £3m deal for Leeds striker Rodrigo Moreno
Of course, losing Rodrigo was more than likely this summer. In fact, in the event of relegation – it needs to happen. Leeds cannot afford Rodrigo’s wages in the Championship. But, to lose him for just £3m is a massive, massive blow.
Yes, he is 32 and yes, he only has 12 months left on his contract. But having scored 15 goals last season, 13 in the Premier League, in a side that finished one from bottom – Leeds have got to be requesting more for his signature.
If of course, that fee is determined by a release clause then there is little Leeds can do, other than wave goodbye to Rodrigo for peanuts. But it seems like a real kick in the, peanuts, to be losing him for such a small fee, if true.
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