Fabrizio Romano drops big transfer development that'll leave Leeds supporters gutted - opinion

Leeds United‘s hopes of securing the signing of Liverpool forward Takumi Minamino have been shattered, following a recent update from journalist Fabrizio Romano.

The transfer guru revealed on Twitter that the Japan international is set to secure a move to Ligue 1 outfit As Monaco this summer, despite having been heavily linked with a switch to Elland Road in recent months.

He stated:

“Takumi Minamino deal, completed. He’s joining AS Monaco, permanent move from Liverpool now confirmed by Philippe Clement: ‘We’re really happy, he was our priority.’

“Liverpool will receive €15m plus €3m in add-ons.”

The 27-year-old – who joined the Reds on a £7.25m deal back in January 2020 – had previously worked under Jesse Marsch at Red Bull Salzburg, albeit with that connection seemingly not proving enough to get a deal over the line.

That news will come as a real blow to those of a Leeds persuasion, with supporters having no doubt been hopeful that Marsch would be able to tempt his former asset into staying in the Premier League, following what’s been a mixed spell on Merseyside.

While the £10.8m-rated gem has failed to gain a regular role in Jurgen Klopp’s side – making just five league starts under the German in total over the past two-and-a-half years – Minamino had proved vital in the Reds’ recent domestic cup double, notably netting seven goals in just eight games in the FA Cup and Carabao Cup, combined.

Equally, even with his lack of top-flight action, the £72k-per-week gem still managed to net three league goals in just 11 appearances last term, showcasing that he can be a real asset if handed the chance to be a first-team regular.

Marsch, in particular, is fully aware of the 42-cap gem’s talents, with the versatile speedster