Leeds United will have to do battle with Barcelona if they are to secure the services of Marc Roca, according to German media outlet BILD. The Whites have been linked with the midfielder during the week as the club look to add reinforcements to a vulnerable midfield, with talk of a £10 million move gathering pace in the last few days.
The 25-year-old is open to a move away from Bayern after making just 24 appearances over his two season’s at the club after moving there from Espanyol. He has failed to find a consistent place in the midfield - understandable, considering he is competing with Joshua Kimmich - and is keen for regular minutes, with Leeds able to offer exactly that.
But now the Catalan club are reportedly looking to swoop in and seal a deal under Leeds' noses as they look to strengthen their squad with cut-price deals, and BILD have reported that they are one of several clubs battling the Whites for a deal.
READ MORE: How Leeds United could line up if they sign their reported targets
“Most recently, BILD had already reported on the interest of Bundesliga club Eintracht Frankfurt.” they wrote. “The Spanish clubs FC Barcelona and Betis Sevilla also had him on their list.”
Leeds look set to a long summer dealing with Barcelona who have made Raphinha their priority. The Brazilian is thought to be keen on a move to the Spanish club but is contracted until 2024, putting his current club in the driving seat. Premier League safety ensured a reported £25 million relegation clause could not be activated and those in charge at Elland Road are said to have made clear their demands of £60 million.
And now Xavi’s side are looking to do a deal with one of Leeds’ main targets, but Roca’s insistence on regular football could give the West Yorkshire side the edge. He would likely come into the starting lineup to complement Kalvin Phillips, should he remain at the club.
The club will have to move quickly if they are to secure Roca’s signature, with Barca, Eintracht Frankfurt and Sevilla all able to offer up Champions League football next season.
