Leeds United transfer news: Rodrigo set for exit as Friday announcement increases likelihood of sale
Rodrigo being called up to the Spain squad following relegation to the Championship has increased his chances of leaving Leeds United, according to Graham Smyth.
The forward found his best form in a Whites shirt this season despite the overall struggles of the team, netting 15 goals in all competitions, including 13 in the Premier League.
But after he returned to the national team set up for the Nations League clash with Italy, as announced on Friday (2 June), Smyth expects it to have sealed his departure from Elland Road this summer.
Writing in the Yorkshire Evening Post he said: “Rodrigo has a year left on his contract at the club, making this Leeds’ last chance to recoup a transfer fee, and his wage, along with a return to the Spain fold, increase the likelihood of a summer departure.”
On Twitter he added: “That, you would think, is that for Rodrigo and Leeds United.”
Earned a move
There aren’t many in this squad who come out of a season like the one that has just ended with their reputations enhanced but Rodrigo would be one.
Prior to this year he had blown hot and cold in West Yorkshire and struggled to justify his club-record signing tag, but freed from that by first Brenden Aaronson and then Georginio Rutter – who both struggled under the weight of that status themselves – the former Valencia man looked like the player he was signed to be.
It hasn’t proven to be enough, but without his goals the relegation would have been confirmed weeks ago, so if an offer comes in for him he is one of the few who can leave with his head held relatively high.
It is a first call-up for Rodrigo since November 2021, and if he wants to continue playing for his country then it is fairly likely he would need to not be in the Championship.
The Leeds United attack already requires work, since relying on Patrick Bamford as a number nine when his injury history keeps catching up with him has proven to be a mistake, and the long-term future for the embattled Rutter needs resolving after a rough half-season with the club.
Rodrigo would no-doubt be an ideal forward in the second tier, with his work-rate and his ability to pounce on mistakes in defence, but it is hard to escape the conclusion that Smyth’s assessment is accurate.
In other Leeds United news, the 49ers takeover talks have been put at risk by Andrea Radrizzani’s latest moves according to Phil Hay.