Leeds United have announced that sporting director Victor Orta has left the club by mutual consent.
The 44-year-old was appointed by owner Andrea Radrizzani in the summer of 2017, taking over from controversial predessessor Massimo Cellino.
Orta was a key figure behind the appointment of Marcelo Bielsa as head coach in 2018, and oversaw positive changes at the club that resulted in promotion back to the Premier League in 2020 courtesy of winning the Championship title.
Leeds initially made a bright start to life back in the top flight and finished in ninth place in the 2020-21 campaign, but Bielsa and co were dragged into a relegation scrap the following season and the Argentine boss was sacked in February 2022.
Jesse Marsch replaced Bielsa and he managed to steer Leeds to safety, but the American failed to make progress at Elland Road earlier this season, even with the addition of a number of big-money signings.
Orta and co spent around £120m on 10 new players since the start of last summer, with the club's transfer record broken twice – firstly with Brendan Aaronson arriving for around £25m before Georginio Rutter joined the club in January for £35.5m.
Marsch was sacked in February and replaced by Javi Gracia, who has been unable to turn Leeds' fortunes around, winning just three of his 12 games in charge, and is allegedly facing the sack.
Orta has received widespread criticism from the club's supporters for his contribution to decisions made on managerial appointments, transfers and the overall operation of the club in his role, which has ultimately led to his departure.
Leeds United can confirm Victor Orta has left the club by mutual consent
— Leeds United (@LUFC) May 2, 2023
The Daily Mail reports that Orta has mutually left the club following talks with Radriazinni on Monday, in which the former expressed his desire for Gracia to remain in charge.
A statement from Radrizzani read: "I am deeply saddened by the way that this chapter closes as Victor has been responsible for some of the best moments of my time as owner of Leeds United and I thank him and his people for all they have done in the past six years.
"However, it is clear that it is time to change direction and therefore we have agreed that Victor will leave the club.
"I understand supporters are hurt and upset, but now is a time for unity.
"We have four cup finals left to play this season and working together, I believe we can survive."
An imminent announcement of Gracia's departure is expected, with Sam Allardyce among the frontrunners to take over as head coach.
Leeds, who currently sit 17th in the Premier League table and above the bottom three on goal difference, travel to the Etihad Stadium to face reigning champions Manchester City on Saturday.
Oliver Thomas
