Leeds United have yet to make a formal contract offer to Liam Cooper, according to Graham Smyth.
On Wednesday (7 August), the reputable journalist stated in the Yorkshire Evening Post that the Whites had simply made a verbal offer of what they were willing to consider in principle.
The compensation would be less than Cooper could realistically expect to earn in EFL League One. Despite ongoing negotiations, no contract offers have been made or rejected.
Cooper is drawing interest from two Championship clubs and is pondering a move abroad.
Will Leeds United make a formal contract offer to Liam Cooper?
This is a really challenging scenario for the Whites. If the club were thinking with their emotions, they would undoubtedly love to offer Cooper a new contract.
Cooper will celebrate a decade with Leeds on August 13, and the former club captain is an important part of the club’s current history.
However, if the club is thinking clearly, it would be prudent to avoid offering the 32-year-old new terms.
Cooper was a bit-part player under Daniel Farke last season, and while he has a strong emotional connection to the club, it might be best for him to leave Elland Road.
He is unlikely to be a prominent player for the Whites this season, as evidenced by the fact that he has yet to get a contract offer.
While it would undoubtedly be a sad goodbye, Cooper may be ready to pursue a new opportunity as he nears the end of his career.