NafisaWith Leeds United anticipated to be active in the summer transfer window and bring in a wave of new arrivals, there will inevitably need to be some exits to accommodate them.
The 49ers are believed to have assembled a transfer budget exceeding £100m to equip Daniel Farke with everything required to secure Premier League survival. Key targets include a new goalkeeper, a No.10, and a forward.
However, with Leeds likely to reinforce in several areas of the starting XI, some players will need to move on in order to ensure the club remains compliant with Profit & Sustainability Rules in the months ahead.
Illan Meslier is widely tipped to leave, while Patrick Bamford’s situation remains unresolved. Graham Smyth has stated he anticipates Bamford’s exit, though Bamford’s remarks over the weekend imply he intends to stay at Leeds.
Junior Firpo is now ‘close’ to leaving Leeds in emotional move:
The left-back hasn’t shied away from expressing his affection for Leeds fans following the club’s parade on Monday, with Firpo spotted celebrating into the early hours of Tuesday alongside Jayden Bogle and other teammates.
But Firpo’s deal is due to run out. Largie Ramazani is eager for Firpo to extend his stay, while Firpo himself, during Monday’s celebrations, encouraged Paraag Marathe to send him a proposal.
However, TeamTalk now report that Firpo is ‘close’ to leaving Leeds, with an in-form La Liga outfit, Real Betis, poised to finalise the signing of the defender on a free – a switch that would see Firpo return to his former side.
It would also reunite Firpo with Marc Roca and Diego Llorente, both of whom permanently departed Leeds last summer to join Manuel Pellegrini’s team. Betis are set to face Chelsea in the Europa Conference League final.
What Firpo said about Real Betis is telling with move now close:
The 11-cap Dominican Republic international emerged at Betis, going on to feature 43 times at senior level before Barcelona swooped in to secure his services. He contributed to 12 goals during that period.
Not long ago, Firpo referred to Leeds as his second home – with only Betis ranking higher. It now seems the European finalists will bolster their squad by acquiring Firpo on a free transfer, bringing an end to his four-year spell at Elland Road.
It’s uncertain whether Leeds attempted to retain Firpo or opted against offering him fresh terms – potentially due to his salary or performance levels in the Premier League before relegation. Should he leave, it would be a significant loss.
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