Leeds United forward requests move abroad amid contract stand-off

Yahoo

23-07-2025

Mateo Joseph Pushes for Spain Move as Leeds United Hold Firm
Joseph's Absence Explained
Mateo Joseph's no-show at Leeds United's pre-season camp in Germany has ignited transfer speculation — and now it's confirmed. As revealed by The Yorkshire Post's Graham Smyth, the young forward has asked to leave Elland Road, citing a desire to return to his native Spain, with Real Betis reportedly interested.
Daniel Farke, speaking after Leeds' friendly against Manchester United in Stockholm, offered full transparency on the situation. 'It was actually the plan for him to come to Germany and the situation is also quite clear,' he said. Farke praised Joseph's contributions last season, noting his 39 Championship appearances and starts ahead of both Joel Piroe and Patrick Bamford. 'You just do this with a 20-year-old guy, or 21-year-old guy, when you believe in him and trust him,' he added.
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Contract Complications and Transfer Standoff
Despite Joseph's request, Leeds are standing firm. The club reportedly value Joseph highly, and no club has met their asking price. 'We will just make a move possible once there's a club who meets our expectations,' Farke explained. 'It's also clear that we as a club have invested a lot in time, money, backing whatever, and he's on a long-term contract.'
While Farke has not blocked the player's desire to move, he made it clear that Joseph remains under contract and is still part of the club — at least for now.
Professionalism Under the Microscope
Joseph's conduct has raised eyebrows, especially when compared with teammate Willy Gnonto, who was 'desperate' to feature against Manchester United despite his own involvement in the Euros. Farke said, 'He [Joseph] said he's not in the mental state in order to do this. And what should I do? I can't call the police to drag him to train.'
The young striker is now training alone at Thorp Arch and with the U21s, a far cry from what fans expected after his involvement last season. Farke remains pragmatic: 'I just want players who want to be here and are buzzing that they can represent this club at Premier League level.'
What Happens Next?
Leeds are in no rush to sell unless their valuation is met. With the Premier League season looming, the ball is in Real Betis' court. For now, Joseph remains a Leeds player — at least on paper.
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From a Leeds United fan's perspective, this development feels frustrating but not unfamiliar. Supporters have seen young talents come and go, but the timing and method of Joseph's request are what sting the most.
Joseph played a key role during the last campaign — he wasn't just a fringe player. Seeing him now sideline himself during a crucial pre-season suggests a lack of commitment, something fans at Elland Road value deeply. Leeds has always prided itself on grit, passion, and players giving their all — qualities Farke himself promotes. That's why the contrast with Gnonto is so stark. Fans might question Joseph's mentality, particularly if he's refusing to train at a time when the squad is being shaped for a demanding Premier League return.
On the other hand, there's some empathy too. At 21, with Spanish heritage and interest from La Liga, it's understandable he wants to pursue a move that feels personally and professionally right. But fans will rightly expect him to honour his contract until any move is finalised. Farke's honesty should be applauded, as should his stance that professionalism matters. Leeds United aren't in the business of being pushed around — and supporters will back the club's refusal to sell below market value.
Ultimately, if Joseph's heart isn't in it, then perhaps it's best to part ways — but only on Leeds' terms.