Leeds United ‘red line’ crossed as Marathe stance on Joseph emerges
Leeds United have a massive decision to make on Mateo Joseph this transfer window.
The Spain Under-21 international doesn’t want to remain at Elland Road ahead of next season after struggling for regular game time.
Joseph has told Daniel Farke he wants to leave Leeds, but it remains to be seen whether the striker’s request will be accepted.
Real Betis have been deterred by demands from West Yorkshire, but the 21-year-old’s situation will be one to keep an eye on.
Farke unhappy after Joseph misses training camp in Germany
Farke wasn’t pleased after Joseph refused to join his Leeds teammates in Germany, according to The Athletic.
The news outlet reports (1 August) that the German manager tolerated the centre-forward’s request to miss the Manchester United friendly, but he may have crossed the “red line” after staying at home and missing the eight-day training camp.
It’s been claimed that Paraag Marathe likes the 21-year-old and rates him highly, which is why the Elland Road hierarchy don’t want to accept a loan offer with an obligation to buy.
While the West Yorkshire outfit may be open to the Spanish forward’s exit, he will not be allowed to leave for cheap, and the saga is expected to drag on before any resolution.
Joseph loss will be a blow for Farke at Leeds
It looks like Joseph will end up leaving Leeds this summer after making his stance clear, which will definitely be a big blow for the Whites.
Farke will likely ask for a replacement before the Spanish youngster is allowed to leave, as he lacks options in the number nine position.
Patrick Bamford is surplus to requirements at Leeds, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him leave Elland Road soon.
Leeds evidently lack quality depth in the attacking areas, and instead of signing new players, they are on the verge of letting more go.
| Player | Age |
| Joel Piroe | 25 |
| Dan James | 27 |
| Willy Gnonto | 21 |
| Largie Ramazani | 24 |
| Patrick Bamford | 31 |
| Joseph | 21 |
| Jack Harrison | 28 |
| Lukas Nmecha | 26 |
| Joe Gelhardt | 23 |
| Sam Greenwood | 23 |
Joseph wasn’t the first name on the teamsheet last season, but he did feature 39 times for the Whites in the Championship-winning campaign.
An injury to Joel Piroe will arguably leave Farke scratching his head in the Premier League if the 21-year-old striker leaves and isn’t replaced.
Only time will tell who will come and go through the doors at Elland Road in the final weeks of the transfer window.
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