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Jesse Marsch shares important reason for Diego Llorente Leeds United exit - Phil Hay
Jesse Marsch has admitted that Leeds United gave the green light for Diego Llorente’s move to Roma in January due to personal reasons in the defender’s life.
The centre-back made a surprise exit to Jesse Mourinho’s Roma side on a loan-to-buy deal on transfer deadline day after signing a new contract at Elland Road before the New Year. [Gazzetta dello Sport, 30 January]
The Athletic’s reporter Phil Hay quoted the American during his pre-match press conference for Leeds’ upcoming Premier League clash against Nottingham Forest.
On the reasoning behind Llorente’s exit, Hay tweeted on Friday (3 February): “Marsch on Llorente: ‘We know it leaves us a little bit short at the back but Diego felt there were a couple of things in his personal life which meant he needed a change. It was really important for him.'”
Fresh start
Llorente’s transfer to Roma makes sense for all parties involved, as Llorente had struggled to get himself in first-team proceedings since Marsch became manager last year.
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The option to make the loan move permanent is also smart business from Leeds, as they have brought in a suitable replacement this month in Max Wober whilst also having Diego Monteiro to call upon if injuries were to build up.
If the Spaniard was just going to occupy the bench for the rest of the season, there was really no need to keep him, and his potential exit could free up some funds for Marsch after spending big in the winter window.
It is a shame Llorente’s stint at Leeds has ended this way, but it is nice to see the club allowing his exit after the defender stated he had personal issues.
The 29-year-old’s initial loan move is almost certain to become a permanent deal, according to Beren Cross (31 January), and the Whites could be set to bank a surprise profit for the defender.
In other Leeds United news, Robbie Savage has made a shock Whites relegation claim before their clash against Nottingham Forest.