Mateo Joseph Refuses Leeds Preseason to Force Real Betis Transfer as Transfer Standoff Intensifies
The summer transfer window rarely fails to deliver dramatic exits, and this year, Leeds United forward **Mateo Joseph** is at the center of a developing saga—one that sees a young talent push for a move, a Premier League club standing firm, and a Spanish giant lurking in the wings.
The Standoff: Joseph’s Transfer Request and Preseason Absence
**Mateo Joseph**—the 21-year-old who enjoyed 41 appearances for Leeds United last season—has taken the bold step of refusing to join the club’s preseason training camp in Germany, instead remaining in England as he seeks a switch to **Real Betis** of La Liga[1][2][3]. Despite being penciled in for a key role in Leeds’ Premier League return, Joseph’s future now appears to lie elsewhere.
According to Leeds manager **Daniel Farke**, Joseph “came to us and told us he wants a new challenge and would like a change of scenery. He’s also hinted that he prefers to go to Spain because of his roots.”[1][3] The young Spaniard has not only handed in a formal transfer request, but has also declined to train, citing he is “not mentally fit” to do so[1][2]. Farke has made it clear he cannot force the issue, quipping, “What should I do? I can’t call the police to drag him here on the training pitch.”[2]
This standoff is further emphasized by Joseph’s absence from the Manchester United friendly on July 19, with Leeds fans reacting with frustration as last season’s standout Under-21 player now looks determined to leave[2].
Negotiation Breakdowns and Valuation Demands
Leeds United are determined not to be steamrolled in negotiations. **Betis** submitted a loan bid with a €10 million option to buy, but Leeds flatly rejected the offer, holding out for a fixed €12 million transfer fee[1]. The Yorkshire club’s stance is clear: Joseph is not for sale at a discount, and manager Farke has stressed that while he will not stand in the player’s way, any move must meet Leeds’ valuation[3].
The situation is complicated by Betis’ recent €6.5 million signing of teenage Uruguayan forward **Gonzalo Petit**, who may now be loaned out to make room for Joseph[1]. This suggests Betis are keen to add Joseph’s proven youth pedigree to their attacking options, especially after a stellar showing for Spain’s Under-21s—eight goals in twelve caps—which has fueled interest from the Andalusians[1].
Leeds’ Stance and Squad Dynamics
Despite the turmoil, Leeds United emphasize Joseph’s potential and the faith Farke placed in him last season. “We really value and rate him. Otherwise, we wouldn’t have played him, especially in the beginning of the last successful campaign, ahead of Golden Boot winner Joel Piroe and ahead of an experienced striker like Patrick Bamford,” Farke stated[3]. Joseph’s seven league contributions (goals and assists) in 41 appearances, while modest, reflect a player trusted in a crowded forward line.
As Leeds prepare for their Premier League return, they are balancing squad ambitions with the reality of players wanting new challenges. The club’s willingness to listen to offers—at the right price—suggests pragmatism, but the door isn’t open to low-ball bids[3].
Betis’ Ambitions
**Real Betis** are no strangers to recruiting young Spanish talent. They have already welcomed Leeds left-back **Junior Firpo** back to Spain this summer, and Joseph represents another promising addition to their attacking depth[2]. With the departures of veteran forwards and a busy transfer window, Betis are looking to inject pace and energy into their frontline—qualities Joseph displayed abundantly in Spain’s youth setup.
Betis’ €6.5 million acquisition of Petit, who may go on loan, further underlines the club’s interest in refreshing their forward department. Bringing Joseph back to Spain—his home country—would be a coup both for the player’s development and the club’s profile in La Liga.
What Happens Next?
The ball is now in **Betis**’ court: do they meet Leeds’ €12 million demand, or do they walk away and look elsewhere? Joseph himself has reportedly requested Leeds accept an offer—but with Leeds’ stance clear, the saga is set to unfold further as preseason progresses.
Leeds United will not begrudge a player a move if the price is right, but they will not let a prized asset go on the cheap. For **Mateo Joseph**, the chance to return to Spain and relaunch his career is clearly worth the professional risk—an opportunity for a new chapter at one of La Liga’s most historic clubs.
How many appearances did Mateo Joseph make for Leeds last season?
Joseph featured in 41 matches across all competitions, contributing seven goals and assists combined[1].
Did Real Betis make an offer for Joseph?
Yes, Betis submitted a loan offer with a €10 million option to buy, which was rejected by Leeds, who are holding out for a €12 million transfer fee[1].
Why does Joseph want to leave Leeds?
Joseph is seeking a new challenge due to his Spanish roots and has expressed a desire to return to his home country, particularly to Real Betis[1][3].
Will Leeds United keep Joseph if no deal is agreed?
Leeds manager Daniel Farke has not ruled out Joseph staying if a suitable offer is not received, but the club is only interested in “players who are excited” about being at Leeds[3].
This news was brought to you by:
