Diego Llorente issues message to supporters amid Leeds United transfer twist
Leeds United defender Diego Llorente has issued a new message to Roma supporters after a new transfer twist emerged at Elland Road.
The 30-year-old spent last season on loan in the Italian capital but now appears set to complete a permanent move away from Leeds with reports suggesting he is set to sign a four-year deal with Real Betis [Fabrizio Romano, 7 July].
While some have suggested the Whites have declined the Spanish club’s offer [Yorkshire Evening Post, 7 July], Llorente appears to have already said his goodbyes to Roma this summer with a return to Serie A now seeming unlikely.
Writing on Instagram on Sunday (7 July) he said: “I can only say THANK YOU ROME! An unforgettable year and a half in which I could be happy and understand what Romanist feeling means!
“Wearing the Rome jersey was a big responsibility but at the same time a unique feeling! I end this period satisfied for having defended and fought for this shield, leaving everything on the field with pride and honour.
“I will always remember the great nights at the Olympic Stadium, the derby atmosphere and more than 70 thousand people singing the anthem of Rome. Thank you to all the fans for your unconditional support and thank you to all the people who allowed me to live this dream which I will never forget!
“From now on there will be an extra novelist supporting Rome! LETS GO ROME! !!!”
Will Leeds United sell Diego Llorente in the summer transfer window at Elland Road?
Whether or not a move to Real Betis is imminent for Llorente this summer, it now appears clear that unless something changes quickly, the Spanish defender won’t be back in Rome next season.
Although Leeds United would likely benefit from his experience in the Championship as they look to win promotion this season under Daniel Farke, a permanent move away from Elland Road would be best for all parties this summer.
The Whites will pocket a reasonable transfer fee for his services whilst also getting his wage off of the books and the 30-year-old will be able to continue playing at the highest possible level rather than in the second tier.
Hopefully, some sort of agreement can be reached with Betis or another club sooner rather than later to get this deal over the line.
There is no need for it to be dragged out over the coming weeks as pre-season preparations step up a gear.
In other Leeds United news, the Whites have made a new behind-the-scenes change at Elland Road ahead of the new season
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