Leeds man labelled ‘failure of the season’ steps up Elland Road exit plan

Mateusz Klich, Rodrigo Moreno West Brom v Leeds December 2020

Leeds forward Rodrigo Moreno has stepped up his plan to leave by making a departure request to the club, according to a report.

The Whites raised eyebrows last summer by bringing the Spaniard to Elland Road. Not only did he represent a club-record signing, but he arrived as a regular for his country too. As such, he brought with him exciting expectation over the potential he could add to Marcelo Bielsa‘s side.

However, his debut season has not gone as planned. A series of injuries – as well as a lay-off with coronavirus – have hampered his game-time.

As such, Whites boss Bielsa launched a staunch defence of the player.

Nevertheless, reports from Fichajes last weekend claimed that the player feels unsettled in West Yorkshire.

The source said that the 30-year-old never originally wanted to move to Leeds and therefore wants to return to his native Spain.

However, another more recent report from Fichajes now says that Rodrigo has made a request to Leeds chiefs to leave the club.

The earlier report claimed that Real Betis and Sevilla are ready to make contact with the Whites.

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However, Rodrigo does not only feel concerned for his domestic game time. Indeed, the striker now fears for his place in the Spain squad, with Alvaro Morata and Gerard Moreno looking to be ahead of him in the pecking order.

Fichajes’ more recent report even labels Rodrigo as the ‘failure of the season’.

Rodrigo’s struggles for game time and form are in stark contrast to how fellow recent signing Raphinha has adapted to life at Leeds.

The Brazilian has settled excellently, even attracting transfer speculation involving Liverpool and Manchester United.

Leeds eye Rodrigo replacement

Raul de Tomas, Espanyol

Reports have claimed that Leeds have begun the search for Rodrigo’s replacement.

Espanyol striker Raul de Tomas has caught the eye after staying at the club following their relegation from Spain’s top flight last season.

However, he may not be in La Liga 2 for long, with Leicester and West Ham also reportedly keen.

READ MORE: Leeds rival West Ham for Espanyol man seen as ideal replacement for star