Blow to Leeds: Becchio wants out

The 19-goal Argentinian has asked to leave Elland Road after the club received bids for him from two unnamed foreign clubs.

Both offers have been rejected by Leeds but Becchio’s request is almost certain to encourage further bids for him before the transfer window closes next Thursday.

A statement from the club read: “(Becchio), who has been the subject of two separate bids from foreign clubs during the January transfer window, has handed in a transfer request to the club as financially he believes his best interests are served by a move away from Leeds United.

“Both bids have been rejected and the player will only be allowed to leave in the event that an acceptable offer is received.

“The club have sought to agree the terms of a new contract with the player, who is already the highest earner, but the requested terms were beyond a level that we could support, particularly in view of the regulations relating to Financial Fair Play that will be effective in coming seasons.

“It is disappointing that this situation has occurred when he is under contract until June 30, 2014. “

Doubt has surrounded Becchio since the start of the transfer window and confusion about his future was heightened recently by suggestions from manager Neil Warnock that the forward’s head had been turned by offers of a move elsewhere.

Becchio, who is halfway through his fifth year at Elland Road, is United’s leading scorer this season but now looks likely to depart before the January window close.

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