Santos general manager Alexandre Gallo has backed Marcos Leonardo to leave in the next transfer window after Roma failed to come to an agreement over the summer. Although Leonardo is touted to face extra competition come winter, Roma are still in pole position to win the transfer race.
At a press conference, Gallo revealed the details (via Tuttomercatoweb) behind the saga involving the exit of Leonardo.
“All the protagonists of recent years have been sold by Santos. Marcos Leonardo understood the delicate moment and agreed to wait.”
Gallo then explained how they managed to keep hold of the 20-year-old.
“We have increased his salary and put in place some rules so that he can leave in the next transfer window, provided that it is interesting for Santos. I thank the player and his entourage for their understanding.”
The six-month wait to sign Leonardo is bound to discount his fee after Roma saw their €18M offer including add-ons and bonuses turned down. Santos have accelerated efforts to sign Leonardo’s replacement, most recently welcoming ex-Rangers attacker Alfredo Morelos.
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