Leeds star now 'looking' to leave by Monday due to role under Bielsa - report

Leeds United forward Rodrigo is eyeing up a move to Barcelona in search of more regular playing time, according to a fresh rumour which emerged on Thursday.

The 30-year-old arrived at Elland Road in 2020 as the Whites’ most expensive signing all of time, costing £27million from Valencia.

There is no doubt that Rodrigo’s time at Leeds has been disappointing overall, however, with the versatile forward scoring just nine goals in 45 appearances, despite some flashes of his talent.

Still, it would be a big shock to give up on the Spain international so soon, given he is still the club’s most expensive capture and Marcelo Bielsa’s squad is stretched extremely thin due to injuries.

According to Mundo Deportivo [via Sport Witness], Rodrigo is one of ‘several names’ being ‘offered’ to Barcelona.

It is noted that he is not an ‘undisputed starter at Leeds’ and is ‘looking for a greater role’ at another club, in order to earn more minutes at a key stage in his career ahead of the World Cup this year.

Bielsa has only started Rodrigo 12 times in the league this season.

Journalist Phil Hay has described Rodrigo as a ‘class act’ and a ‘huge player’ in the past, so it would be foolish to cash in now with Bielsa’s attacking options already so bare.

The Spain international turns 31 in March however, and there is an argument to say that he is past his best given how much he has struggled to find the back of the net in England, so receiving a fee for him in the summer could be wise if Barcelona are still interested.

It would generate funds for a younger signing, and while there is a risk element in selling a player with such pedigree, he has had long enough to prove himself consistently but has failed to.

Just two goals this season simply