Leeds United’s website statement on June 28, following Marc Roca’s transfer, was notably curt, lacking any well-wishing or ‘best of luck’ messages.
Roca was among the first players to seek a loan move after Leeds’ relegation from the Premier League. After improving his performance at Real Betis, he will now remain with the Spanish club.
Although Leeds’ statement mentioned an undisclosed fee, reports suggest it was £3.8 million. Whether this amount helps the club maintain profitability and sustainability is yet to be seen【Fabrizio Romano, 28 June】.
The full statement from Leeds read: “Leeds United can confirm Marc Roca has joined Spanish La Liga outfit Real Betis, for an undisclosed fee.
“Roca spent the 2023/24 campaign on loan at Estadio Benito Villamarin and has now agreed a permanent move.”
Roca’s departure from Elland Road seemed inevitable this summer, as he was clear about his preference to stay in Spain rather than return to West Yorkshire【El Des Marque, 4 June】.
He even bought a house in Seville weeks before the transfer was finalized, indicating his commitment to Betis, either on loan or permanently【Diario Del Sevilla, 22 June】.
While other loanees like Brenden Aaronson are expected to return【Graham Smyth, 10 June】, selling Roca for a nominal fee that keeps Leeds financially stable seems prudent.
Roca was two years into a four-year contract after joining from Bayern Munich in 2022. His sale recovers roughly a quarter of the £10 million fee Leeds initially paid.
Although Victor Orta’s strategy of buying low and selling high was disrupted by relegation, Roca’s sale may provide financial flexibility for Leeds to acquire new players aligned with Daniel Farke’s future plans.
In other news, the Leeds United Supporters’ Trust has contacted the FSA regarding details of the club’s pre-season tour.
