News has emerged of Bournemouth’s asking price for Joe Rothwell and Leeds United fans have discussed the reports on social media, with the majority in disagreement.
When the announcement of Joe Rothwell’s season-long loan first arrived, it was met with a mixed response. The playmaker had not pulled up trees at Southampton or with parent club Bournemouth.
Rothwell, who turned 30 in January, was made to wait for a run in the side but injuries to Ilia Gruev and Ethan Ampadu saw Rothwell partner Ao Tanaka in midfield. Since then, Rothwell has been excellent.
His driving runs from midfield, his deep-lying creativity and his set-piece ability have been crucial in Leeds remaining top of the Championship table. But he only remains on loan, and a permanent deal is possible.
Leeds United fans discuss permanent deal for Joe Rothwell
While he might not be first choice, the playmaker has been excellent for Leeds. Especially when Leeds are in control, trying to break down opposition – Rothwell is the perfect midfielder in this Daniel Farke side.
But, away from home, Rothwell lacks the tenacity and physicality. Ampadu, Gruev and Tanaka are more-suited to the stubborn approach Leeds must adopt when away from Elland Road in pursuit of promotion.
Whites fans have reacted on social media to reports that Bournemouth want a fee of £7.5m if Leeds are to sign him permanently. Promotion is also a necessity, and Leeds fans have responded on social media.
Some believe it is a deal that has to be done:
It is a deal deemed as a “bargain” by one Leeds fan, while another said a £7.5m fee for his “experience” and that he is “already integrated” at Elland Road makes it a deal worth doing come the summer.
Another said “what are we waiting for, that’s a snip”, with fans clearly impressed by Rothwell’s first season at Leeds. But other Leeds supporters pointed to the fact he is now in his thirties, and not first choice.
One Leeds supporter disagreed with signing Rothwell, saying he is a “good player” but £7.5m for a player in his thirties means “no thanks”. Another supporter said Bournemouth would need to “half” the price.
Another said that Rothwell is not “good enough” for the Premier League and there is an argument there to say he might not be the ideal signing. But Daniel Farke says Rothwell has proved Leeds fans wrong.
What Joe Rothwell has said about his future at Leeds United
He would be a solid signing. A playmaker that might be a good squad option going into the Premier League but there are reasons why Leeds may prefer to pursue other midfielders, instead of Rothwell.
Rothwell has said he is unsure if he will be at Leeds next season. Clearly, nothing has been decided of yet and in negotiations, there will surely be some pull from the Leeds end to reduce the £7.5m price tag.
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