The “ideal” scenario for Leeds United would be to recruit Joe Rodon permanently from Tottenham as soon as possible, according to Paul Robinson.
The former England custodian thinks the loanee is settled at Elland Road, but he also acknowledges that the club’s financial status will change significantly based on whether or not they are promoted back to the top tier.
He believes the Welsh defender is a valuable asset that the team should hold onto. However, the pundit fears that if they don’t make it to the playoffs, they could have “blown” their entire transfer budget for the following year if they agree to pay the £15 million that Spurs have quoted [Phil Hay via The Square Ball, 9 November, 18m] at this point.
Robinson, in an exclusive interview with MOT Leeds News, stated: “I don’t know, but from the player’s perspective, he seems happy there.” He is a player who has been, not a journeyman, but he has had a few clubs for someone his age, and he is playing well and appears to have settled down.
“Playing for a major team like Leeds every week will undoubtedly improve his personal prospects, but Leeds would prefer to close a deal quickly because they are unsure of whether they will become a Premier League or Championship team.
“It’s important to manage your finances appropriately. If you end up as a Championship club after spending £15 million on a center-half to close the deal now for the summer, you’ve kind of blown your budget on one player already.”
Leeds United’s imminent Joe Rodon commitment to Spurs puts them at risk.
If everything proceeds as planned, the Whites will return to the top division, and there is a good chance that Rodon will sign a long-term contract.
It wouldn’t be shocking if he stayed in any role if Daniel Farke’s team didn’t win, but it’s unclear if Leeds United could afford his high price. For over £20 million, Luis Sinisterra’s loan to Bournemouth was already made permanent, and more loan recipients are anticipated to go in search of financial stability come summer.
It’s unclear who of Farke’s existing stars would depart as well if a promotion wasn’t obtained, but a sizable sum of money might be pouring in.
However, until the season’s conclusion is known, it would still be risky to lock up Rodon unless the Spurs were willing to negotiate in light of both scenarios.
