Leeds United’s Plans Disrupted by £30m Transfer Swap Between Tottenham Hotspur and Southampton

Tottenham Hotspur have set their sights on Southampton midfielder Carlos ‘Charly’ Alcaraz, potentially using defender Joe Rodon as part of the deal. Rodon, who spent last season on loan at Leeds United, is coveted by the Whites, who are keen to secure his return to Elland Road.

Leeds, however, are not the sole contenders for Rodon’s signature. Competition has emerged from three newly-promoted Championship sides: Southampton, Leicester City, and Ipswich Town. Adding to the intrigue, Spurs have been linked with Leeds’ promising young talent Archie Gray. Speculation suggests that should Leeds opt to sell Gray, a deal involving Rodon moving in the opposite direction could be on the cards.

Spurs are reportedly seeking £10m for Rodon, a figure Leeds could feasibly meet. However, Rodon’s aspirations lie in the Premier League, and a potential swap deal with Southampton for Alcaraz, alongside a transfer fee, appears mutually beneficial. According to The Sun, Alcaraz has caught Spurs’ attention this summer, having spent the latter half of last season at Juventus following Southampton’s relegation from the Premier League in 2023.

Valued at approximately £30m, Alcaraz is regarded as a rising star with significant potential. His debut for Juventus in January, replacing former Leeds midfielder Weston McKennie, underscored his promise.

Rodon, after two loan spells, seeks stability in his career and expressed a desire to continue at Leeds had the club secured promotion. Ahead of the playoff final, he remarked on his future, stating, “It would be comforting to have stability and clarity for next season. I’ve always aimed for the highest level and hope to achieve that again, possibly with Leeds, but you can never be certain.”

He added, “I try not to look too far ahead, although I have grown fond of Leeds and it feels like a second home to me now. My focus remains on giving my all and helping this club return to its rightful place.”