Mateo Joseph & Paraag Marathe
(Credit: Imago)
Alex Charlton
Sun 22 June 2025 12:30, UK
Leeds United and Real Betis have forged a unique link this summer when it comes to transfers.
Junior Firpo is set to depart Elland Road for the La Liga club after an outstanding season in the Championship, with his contract expiring.
Now, Mateo Joseph has been linked with the Leeds exit door, with Strasbourg and Betis keen on the forward.
However, his proposed departure would not be straightforward, considering the news surrounding any possible deal at Elland Road.
Mateo Joseph, Leeds United.
Joseph found starting opportunities sparse last season (Credit: Imago)
Real Betis and 49ers in tussle over Mateo Joseph
With the 21-year-old’s future in doubt, Joseph has been linked with Championship newcomers Birmingham City.
MORE LEEDS STORIES
However, a move to Betis has been in the news amid Joseph’s involvement with Spain at the UEFA European Under‑21 Championship.
Joseph started all three of his country’s games, but Spain were knocked out after a 3-1 defeat to Lee Carsley’s England.
While on international duty, the teenager has spoken about his desire to play more regular football, having started just 11 Championship games last campaign.
An Elland Road exit would help his cause, but it seems that will not be straightforward after news regarding the 49ers.
There is still a hot tug of war in negotiations between Betis and Leeds, according to Diario de Sevilla (22 June).
The Spanish outlet states that the 49ers are pushing for a figure that exceeds £8.5million, but Betis do not intend to pay that.
They also tried to suggest that Joseph’s current market figure stands at just under £3million, which is likely nowhere near the truth.
Mateo Joseph's Championship stats for Leeds United last season.
Joseph’s league stats last season (Credit: Imago)
Leeds United face difficult Joseph decision
While Betis are keen on a move for Joseph, there is no need for the Yorkshire side to strike an agreement.
The forward has three years remaining on his current deal, and he extended his contract in January 2024.
Although Joseph has made 73 appearances for Leeds, he has been unable to secure a place in the starting 11.
However, the Spaniard is a player with a high ceiling, and the 49ers are all too aware of the consequences of letting him leave now.
Perhaps a loan move would be more fitting so that Joseph can get regular first-team football and Leeds can assess his ability.
Then, they would be better placed to make a definitive decision on his Elland Road future.
Sign up for the MOT Leeds News WhatsApp channel and turn on notifications to have all the
latest, breaking Leeds United news sent straight to your phone.
Related Posts