Diego Llorente now very close to new transfer as Leeds United key emerges

Leeds United and Real Betis are "very very close" to a transfer agreement for Diego Llorente, according to Diegolarom.

The Informa Betis journalist posted on X that the two clubs are on the verge of a deal for the La Liga club to sign the 30-year-old centre-back, with next week said to be key.

United knocked back an initial bid from Betis reportedly worth around £5.1million, but the Spanish side's continued interest suggests they're willing to increase their offer to seal a deal [Daily Mirror, 3 July].

Diego Llorente edging closer to Leeds United transfer

Llorente's imminent departure from Elland Road, having not played for the club in well over 18 months, will be welcome news for Daniel Farke as he looks to build a side that can win promotion next season.

The Spaniard was one of five players not in attendance as the squad returned to Thorp Arch for pre-season training, albeit the only one who hadn't been on international duty over the summer [Beren Cross, 4 July].

One who had was brand new signing Joe Rodon, who arrived from Tottenham on a permanent deal after his form during last season's loan deal had sent him to the very top of the club's transfer list [Graham Smyth, 1 July].

Having taken Llorente's number 14 shirt, occupying the same position in defence and showing better desire and composure than Llorente ever did in the shirt, fans will see Rodon as an upgrade in every sense of the word next season.

Real Betis, having already sealed the signing of Marc Roca this summer, could soon have another Leeds player on the books, and all parties will be keen for Llorente to complete his transfer as soon as possible [Mucho Deporte, 5 July].

In other Leeds United news, the 49ers Enterprises have done a deal with the devil that has tormented the club over and over.

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