Rodrigo: Leeds United sign Valencia forward for club record fee

Rodrigo Moreno — Rodrigo scored seven goals for Valencia last season and previously had a loan spell at Bolton

Leeds United have signed Spain forward Rodrigo from Valencia for a club record 29m euro (£26m) fee.

Rodrigo, 29, has signed a four-year contract with Marcelo Bielsa's side, who are back in the Premier League after a 16-year absence.

He scored 59 goals in 220 games for Valencia, helping the La Liga club win the Copa del Rey in 2018-19.

Leeds' previous record transfer was former England captain Rio Ferdinand, who cost £18m from West Ham in 2000.

Rodrigo had a spell in England with Bolton Wanderers in 2010-11 and initially joined Valencia on loan from Portuguese side Benfica in 2014.

Born in Brazil, he made his Spain debut in 2014 and has scored eight goals in 22 international appearances.

Leeds released a video of Rodrigo thanking the club's fans for their "messages on social media" welcoming him to Elland Road, before signing off with: "Come on Leeds, marching on together."

In an Instagram video to Valencia supporters, he said: "After six seasons, it's time to separate our pathway. It's been a very tough decision but I believe it's time to take on a new challenge."

The Spanish club confirmed a deal had been agreed on Tuesday, posting on social media: "Valencia want to thank Rodrigo Moreno for his commitment and effort over the past six seasons.

"We wish him all the best in this new stage of his career at Leeds United."

Leeds won the Championship by 10 points last season to secure their return to the top flight for the first time since 2004.

Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page.

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1100 plus comments on the BBC either people are scared we are back or they have nothing else to do. Marching On Together or MOT if you don't know what it means
In El Loco we trust. MOT ALAW WAFLL.
Melios Panolas it will soon be about how you got related again, but keep your hair on...
rothwelljohn replied: Related? Thicko
@ Giggs 34 trophies baby

This thread is about super Leeds
Go somewhere else glory hunter
Ling Liu LFCGBR2020 replied: I keep saying that but these so called fans don't care. I'd report the comments to be off topic as a few already are.
rodrigo could have said no way jose to living la vida loca in leeds
wow klopp should be sacked: out of europe in march, arsenal have won more this year
Changing Times replied: Enjoy Leeds
Same again. Lose the Charity Shield on penalties, then win the league.
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