Diego Llorente has formed a reunion with Marc Roca at La Liga side Real Betis this summer with both sold permanently by Leeds United, and there is a strong chance of a third joining them.
The 30-year-old defender had spent the last 18 months on loan at Roma, reaching a Europa League final and proving to be first choice last season with more than 40 appearances to his name for the Italian giant.
That is even after Jose Mourinho was sacked, and Daniele De Rossi replaced the Portuguese gaffer. But Roma chose not to sign him permanently despite the bargain fee and instead, Betis opted to make a bid.
It sees the Spain international play alongside Roca again having done so for a brief period at Leeds before leaving for Roma in January 2023. The duo could be joined by a third Leeds player, in the coming weeks.
Llorente drops Leeds hint as third player could end up at Betis
Junior Firpo remains a key player at Elland Road. Daniel Farke said as much after Friday’s 3-0 win over Harrogate Town but the elephant in the room is Firpo’s contract, which expires in less than 12 months.
It means Leeds, and Firpo, have a decision. Do they offer him a new deal, or offload him this summer in order to bring in a fee? Real Betis could help Leeds make that decision on Firpo, as they look for a deal.
Firpo of course played for Betis before his move to Leeds. Speaking to Spanish site ABC Sevilla, new Betis signing Llorente has kept his cards close to his chest but did stir the pot when asked about Firpo.
“I can only have good things to say about him. We all know him and we know what Junior is capable of. Going away has made him improve, it makes you stronger,” Llorente said when asked about Firpo.
Differing reports over a move for Firpo to Betis this summer
The fact is that Firpo is in the final year of his contract. Beyond that, there are differing reports over his future with those in Spain saying Firpo has agreed personal terms, and could even leave Leeds on a free.
But Firpo is currently with the squad in Germany and a recent comment to Mateo Joseph on Instagram suggests he sees his future at Leeds. Needless to say, should Leeds receive an offer, talks will be held.
Every player has his price at Leeds right now and The 49ers will know that it makes sense to sell him now for a slightly discounted price, rather than losing him on a free. Promotion could be key, he may sign on.
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