Rodon has been a statistically significant figure for Daniel Farke’s team this season.
Leeds United found themselves in third place in the Championship, just a point outside the automatic promotion places, despite having played one more game than Southampton in second and Ipswich straight below.
Crucially, the Whites were able to open up a massive 16-point lead over seventh-place Rotherham United before to their visit, which means they’re very certain of a play-off berth, barring a stunning collapse in the final few games.
Daniel Farke’s team is currently on a five-game victory streak, the longest in the division, and has collected at least five more points than anyone else during the same period. It’s a streak built on a rock-solid defensive record, with Leeds allowing just one goal in all of those games.
On-loan Spurs centre-back Joe Rodon has been instrumental in those efforts and has become a permanent target for the Whites. Last month, it was claimed that they had begun negotiating on a long-term deal to sign him and wanted an agreement in place as soon as possible to avoid his price soaring, with Spurs reportedly considering asking for £20 million if he continues to perform.
Leeds understands what is required to sign Rodon.
Football Insider has released a new update on Joe Rodon’s move to Leeds, and it is quite concerning. A deal is reportedly “unlikely” unless Leeds are promoted this season, and they understand better than most how unpredictable the play-offs can be.
Leeds will have to initiate new negotiations with Spurs because his loan arrangement does not include a buy option, although Rodon is likely to draw “lots of interest” given his performances in the second division. Premier League clubs might be among the bidders, which is why promotion could be a “deciding factor”.
Rodon is the second most impactful player in the league.
The Welshman’s worth is readily obvious at this time. He has started 26 of the 27 league games for which he has been available, and he is seventh on the team in minutes played (2,282).
Rodon’s numbers show that he’s been doing it all at the back, ranking in the league’s top ten for clearances (122) and pass completion (90.8%), as well as having the third-best challenge success rate (78.9%). Leeds ‘beat’ their opponent’s xG by an average margin of 1.12 every 90 minutes with Rodon on the pitch, making him the division’s second-most significant player.
Rodon was named Leeds’ player of the month in December, beating out Crysencio Summerville, Dan James, and Pascal Struijk, indicating that he is a fan favourite at Elland Road. For years to come, Leeds fans will undoubtedly be hoping to see him wear the white shirt.