Valencia bartering with Leeds United as they want ‘inaccessible’ fee for star slashed

Leeds United will reportedly ‘need to negotiate’ with Valencia over the sale of Helder Costa, as they are asking for an ‘inaccessible’ fee at present.

Costa played 22 times for the Whites on their return to the Premier League. The winger seemed a valuable top-flight asset, as he contributed to six goals in those appearances.

However, the arrival of Daniel James, as well as the permanent signing of Jack Harrison and the form of Raphinha, meant Costa was surplus to requirements.

As such, he was loaned out to Valencia over the summer. The winger has played 20 times in all competitions for the Spanish side this term.

ElDesmarque Valencia, per Sport Witness, claims Los Che could be interested in making the deal permanent.

They will, however, ‘need to negotiate’ with Leeds, as the €20million (£17million) fee the English side are after is ‘inaccessible’ to them.

It is clear why Leeds want that sum. Firstly, they paid Wolves around that for Costa. Secondly, Leeds’ incomings this season totalled over £50million, and they have had no significant outgoings of late.

However, Costa’s contract is up in the summer. The Whites could well drop to Valencia’s offer, rather than risk losing yet another player for free.

Leeds goalkeeper Illan Meslier wanted by Barcelona

Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier is wanted by Barcelona as they look for long term Andre Ter Stergen replacement

The potential sale to Valencia depends on their La Liga finishing position this season.

However, they will surely be able to pay a decent fee, though not quite the €20million wanted by Leeds.

Costa in long line of Leeds transfer problems

Leeds’ potential inbound deals have also been hindered by their monetary problems. The Elland Road outfit were keen on Huddersfield’s Lewis O’Brien in January, but his release clause was reportedly too steep.

As such, the Whites pulled out of any potential deal. However, Bournemouth have formed their own interest in the midfielder.

The Cherries could be a rival of Leeds’ should they be promoted and the Whites stay up this season.

As such, their reluctance to pay could directly impede them next season.

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