Mateo Joseph and Raphinha
(Credit: Imago)
Josh Edwards
Fri 8 August 2025 10:00, UK
Leeds United are close to parting ways with Mateo Joseph for the time being.
This summer is certainly one of change for the Whites, who have seen several new arrivals check in at Elland Road, while also deciding on the future of several others.
Joseph looks set to leave Leeds, with a loan exit to Mallorca edging closer after he made his demands to Daniel Farke about a summer transfer.
Should that go through as expected, the Spaniard would join a very exclusive club of players, featuring former Whites ace and Ballon d’Or nominee Raphinha.
Mateo Joseph, Leeds United.
Joseph looks set to leave Leeds on loan (Credit: Imago)
Raphinha and six others who made the move from Leeds to La Liga
Joseph made it clear that he wanted to return to Spain this summer, though very few would have anticipated a loan exit given the benefit that could have emerged from a full sale.
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Nevertheless, that move is expected to go through, and if so, he will become the seventh player to have joined a La Liga club directly from Leeds, either on loan or permanently.
Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink – Atlético Madrid – 1999
Ian Harte – Levante – 2004
Raphinha – Barcelona – 2022
Helder Costa – Valencia – 2021-22
Marc Roca – Real Betis – 2023-24
Kiko Casilla – Elche – 2021-22
The most recent one saw Marc Roca join Real Betis in the 2023/24 season, though the biggest move involved Raphinha a few seasons ago.
The Brazilian left the Whites after their relegation from the Premier League to join Barcelona, where he has since established himself as a world-class player.
Oriol Rey is an honourable mention, but given he joined Real Valladolid’s B team, his inclusion isn’t considered.
Leeds United's Daniel Farke.
Leeds boss Daniel Farke (Credit: Imago)
Leeds must now accelerate search for new striker
Joseph wasn’t going to feature much in the Premier League, but his exit will surely see the Whites ramp up their search for a new centre-forward in the coming days.
It was the number one priority at the start of the window, and with just over a week until the season gets underway, it is a major concern that needs to be addressed.
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