According to Phil Hay of The Athletic, Leeds United are unlikely to offer Junior Firpo a new deal, but summer offers ‘would be highly appreciated’.
Leeds United will have high expectations for left-back Firpo upon his arrival. The 27-year-old joined from Barcelona in the summer of 2021, signing a four-year contract at Elland Road.
His tenure with the Whites hasn’t gone as planned, though. He’s struggled to recapture his best form, and injuries have limited his involvement, with 72 appearances in nearly three seasons.
However, Firpo has recently been given a consistent run in the side and has produced remarkable results. He has started all but two Championship games since the turn of the year, and he has five assists in 17 league games.
After losing his place to natural right-back Sam Byram, his unexpected comeback has astonished many.
Despite his recent great play, The Athletic’s Phil Hay believes a contract renewal is improbable. His contract expires in 2025, and as a result, offers ‘would be well appreciated’ by Leeds United during the upcoming transfer window.
Is this a necessary move?
Firpo’s current form has impressed, and if he can keep this up for the rest of the season, who knows what the summer will bring. His time at Leeds United has not been easy, but he has recently demonstrated the heights that many expected from him while the Whites were still in the top division.
Even if he can complete an astonishing turnaround by signing a new contract, Daniel Farke and co. should look to sign another left-back. Relying on Firpo, who has previously battled in the Premier League and has injury issues, and Byram, who has also suffered with the latter, does not appear to be the best decision.
Nonetheless, Firpo will be maintaining focused on the work at hand. If he continues to perform during the season, he may find himself in the shop window if Leeds United decide to sell him.
Farke and co are presently second in the Championship table, with nine games remaining. The Whites face Millwall this Sunday.
