Leeds United are yet to confirm whether a handful of players will stay at Elland Road or move for free, and one player has held conversations with a Championship opponent.
Five players have been sold, including Archie Gray, Diego Llorente, Charlie Cresswell, Kris Klaesson, and Marc Roca. Four players have been loaned out: Darko Gyabi, Sam Greenwood, Jack Harrison, and Sonny Perkins.
Jamie Shackleton joined Sheffield United on a free transfer, whilst Lew Bate moved to Stockport. Liam Cooper, Cody Drameh, and Ian Poveda are free agents, however the club has yet to announce.
However, sources suggest that a Championship opponent has conducted talks with one of the players who are now out of contract. It’s unclear until Leeds confirms whether Cooper or Drameh have left.
Blackburn hold discussions to sign player on free from Leeds.
Cooper, described as “frightening” by Scotland captain John McGinn, is nearing the end of his 10-year career at Leeds. The expectation was that he would leave the club on his own terms, and that is still the case, as his contract has expired.
Despite the fact that the club was not promoted and Leeds remained in the second division, reports continue to suggest that Cooper will go for nothing. Leeds are similarly short in options in the middle of the defence.
However, Cooper appears to be leaving, as Alan Nixon reports that Blackburn and Cooper have spoken via their Patreon channel. However, John Eustace has a few choices in defence, including Hull City’s Sean McLoughlin.
Ideally, Liam Cooper signs a new contract with Leeds this summer.
Leeds require depth after losing Charlie Cresswell to Toulouse on a permanent basis. Pascal Struijk was injured for much of last season, so the Whites will require cover in the middle of the defence this season.
Cooper has stated that if given the opportunity, he would love to sign fresh terms. He did so in front of the club’s board at the annual awards ceremony, and Leeds has offered him a contract to remain at Elland Road.
Cooper will also recognize that he is nearing the end of his career. Does he want to spend them sitting on the Leeds bench? Or does he want to go and be first choice for a club like Blackburn?
