Rodrigo offered irrefutable deal to quit Leeds United, transfer just hours away
Leeds United forward Rodrigo’s transfer away from Elland Road could be just hours away after the Spaniard agreed a deal “he couldn’t refuse” to join Qatari side Al Rayyan, according to Diairo AS.
The 32-year-old was also heavily linked with a move to La Liga side Sevilla, but the Spanish newspaper has reported (12 July) that a deal could not be reached as they offered reduced wages compared to his Leeds deal.
Rodrigo now switches the Premier League for the Qatar Stars League and, subject to passing a medical, the deal is set to be official soon.
Big money, big influence
Sevilla were understandably hesitant to offer the ageing forward a bumper contract for his services. While he is still a stand-out player, he has not been in the form of his life following Leeds’ relegation last season.
While Rodrigo’s wages are not known at this time, it would be very likely at least as much as he was earning at Leeds but possibly more.
He is the latest in a mass exodus of players joining teams in the Middle East, notably Saudi Arabian clubs’ signings of world-class talent including Cristiano Ronaldo at the start of the year and Chelsea star Kalidou Koulibaly and N’Golo Kante.
Rich clubs buying some of Europe’s elite players is a growing change and one that could see the face of world football shift significantly, and Leeds’ 13-goal man is the latest big name to take big money.
But Rodrigo will be missed at Leeds, but as soon as relegation was confirmed no one expected the former Valencia man to stick around in Yorkshire. Many may be upset that he didn’t take the move to Sevilla and remain within one of Europe’s elite leagues. Still, a big payout can be a tough offer to decline, especially considering Rodrigo’s age.
What Rodrigo is bringing to Qatar is an efficient and skilful goalscorer. Even through Leeds’ turbulent season, Rodrigo was a highlight. His 0.58 non-penalty goals per 90 (88th percentile) show his goalscoring threat, while his 1.12 tackles per 90 (89th percentile) show that he does the needed defensive work [FBRef].
Al Rayyan have a quality player on their books, and the Nations League champion will likely flourish at his new club.
In other Leeds United news, Paul Robinson has claimed that the young centre-back Leo Hjelde could have a role next season under Daniel Farke.