Marc Roca exit now very advanced as Leeds United transfer almost certain
Leeds United midfielder Marc Roca is close to sealing his exit from Elland Road, with a transfer to La Liga outfit Real Betis now “very advanced”, according to Eldiario Deportes.
It’s believed the Whites have approved the 26-year-old’s departure and that Roca will spend the 2023/24 season on loan at Manuel Pellegrini’s side (Mundo Deportivo, 12 June).
However, there were obstacles which delayed the transfer. A combination of his high wages, Betis wanting to put a permanent purchase option in that they can afford, and “high competition” to sign the midfielder, according to AS on Friday (16 June).
Spanish outlet Eldiario Deportes [22 June] now reveal that the position of the loan deal is now very advanced, with the former Bayern Munich man and former Arsenal full-back Hector Bellerin now expected to be Real Betis players for the 2023/24 La Liga campaign.
Inevitable
Despite the obstacles in Roca’s departure to Betis this summer, his Elland Road exit was almost guaranteed given the position Leeds United find themselves in and his desire to play at the top level.
Roca emerged as a very good outlet on the ball for Leeds United this season, giving them the foundation to build out from deep areas, but simply struggled with the testing physicality of the English top-flight, especially after the injury to Tyler Adams.
He will also have been disappointed to lose his place in the starting XI following the January arrival of fellow midfielder Weston McKennie. However, when he did start, he simply did not do enough to aid the Leeds United quest for Premier League safety.
A move to Real Betis seems the ideal step for him as Leeds United plan for life without him. Good riddance if they can get a reasonable sum for his services, but a loan move away looks the more likely with the two clubs now being able to overcome these latest stumbling blocks.
Some Elland Road fans will be glad to see the back of him, even if it is temporary.
In other Leeds United news, one big-name manager is now in pole position to fill the vacant dugout at Elland Road.