The Leeds defender wants a move to Serie A, but another player stands in the way

Leeds United defender Diego Llorente has been linked with a potential return to AS Roma this summer after a successful 18-month loan spell with the Serie A club.

The Spanish defender, who joined Roma on loan in January 2023, has made a significant impact during his tenure and both sides are now keen to make the move permanent.

It was recently reported that the player has informed Leeds that he wants to leave and the club are willing to grant his request given their need to raise substantial funds before June 30 to adhere to the Financial Fair Play and Profit Rules and sustainability. .

Financial constraints hindering the Roma

Despite the mutual interest, the Roma face financial challenges in completing the deal. According to Corriere della Sera, as reported by Sport Witness, the Italian club are actively working to offload several players, including Rick Karsdorp, Marash Kumbulla and Chris Smalling, to free up wages and make room for Llorente.

However, the report claims that the club are finding it difficult to sell Kumbulla and if the Albanian stays, it could prevent Roma from signing the Leeds United defender.

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Leeds United, under Daniel Farke, had a strong season in the Championship but narrowly missed out on direct promotion, finishing third.

Their promotion hopes were dashed in the play-offs by Southampton, who secured their place in the Premier League.

As Leeds prepare for another promotion bid next season, they will need to strengthen their squad. The potential departure of Llorente would require Leeds to look for reinforcements in the defensive line-up.