Leeds send centre-back transfer warning, club chiefs concerned – report
Leeds United have warned River Plate that they will not meet Lucas Martinez Quarta’s £18million release clause, according to El Intransigente.
The Argentinean news outlet claims that River are hoping to cash in on the 24-year-old centre-back in a bid to clear some of their debts.
However, Leeds and Real Betis, who are also interested in Quarta, have taken the stance that if they make an offer for him, it will be a lot less than his release clause.
El Intransigente goes on to add that Leeds’ warning has led to growing concerns among River Plate chiefs, who seem desperate to cash in on the Argentina international.
AC Milan, Inter Milan and Roma are also said to be interested in Quarta, who holds an Italian passport [WyScout] and can move to Serie A without being classed as a foreign player.
Leeds need a new centre-back or two this summer.
Ben White’s loan has ended and Gaetano Berardi has suffered a major injury setback that means he might not be offered a new contract by the Whites.
Quarta must be a good player to have earned two caps for Argentina in the last 12 months while he also played a role in helping River win the Copa Libertadores, which is South America’s equivalent to the Champions League.
We wouldn’t mind seeing a player with his CV come in to replace White but only if it is at the right price.
Leeds seem to know about River’s financial situation and they do not need to do them any favours.
They simply need to sign their target for the lowest price possible.
In other Leeds United news, Bielsa has his eyes on this Austrian 24-year-old.