Leeds United are gearing up for a pivotal summer transfer window as they edge closer to securing automatic promotion to the Premier League.
If promoted, the Whites are expected to undergo a significant squad overhaul, with transfer speculation already reaching a fever pitch. However, there are also rumors that several players could be departing the club at the end of the season.
Leeds face crucial decisions regarding certain stars who have played key roles in their push for promotion, and Junior Firpo is one player who may not be part of their Premier League journey next season.
Firpo’s future at Leeds has been under scrutiny due to his contract, which expires at the end of the 2024/25 campaign, sparking widespread speculation about his next move.
The left-back was expected to seek a new contract if Leeds secured promotion to the Premier League. However, doubts remain over whether the club is willing to offer him fresh terms.
Firpo struggled during Leeds’ previous Premier League stint, despite his improved performances in the Championship over the past 18 months.
There are indications that Leeds may not offer him a new deal, as memories of his difficulties in the top flight remain fresh in the minds of the decision-makers at Elland Road.
However, one club is pushing to sign the defender on a free transfer and bring him back to Spain in the upcoming transfer window.
A return to Real Betis is on the cards for the soon-to-be out-of-contract Leeds United star:
Despite Firpo’s struggles in the Premier League with Leeds, his performances in the Championship this season have garnered significant attention.
Mohamed Salah is the only player across England’s top four divisions with more assists than Firpo, whose attacking contributions have earned widespread praise.
Firpo previously played for Real Betis before joining Leeds, and reports suggest he could be set for a return to the Spanish club this summer.
According to Orgullo Biri, Real Betis are increasingly confident about signing the Leeds left-back on a free transfer at the end of the season.
The Spanish club has closely monitored his performances in the Championship and believes his style of play is well-suited to excel in La Liga, despite his struggles in the Premier League.
Manuel Pellegrini has been keeping tabs on Firpo, and the club is in contact with the player’s representatives regarding a potential return to Betis this summer.
Real Betis are reportedly close to securing a deal with Firpo to sign him on a free transfer in the upcoming window, and it appears his departure from Leeds is now only a matter of time.
Leeds seem ready to move on from Firpo
Daniel Farke recently stated that discussions over new contracts for players would only take place at the end of the season, but Firpo’s exit seems increasingly likely.
The left-back has been outstanding this season and is among the best performers in the Leeds squad. However, with promotion within reach, Leeds are planning to build a squad capable of surviving in the Premier League.
The club recognizes the need for greater defensive solidity to withstand the demands of the top flight, and Firpo’s defensive vulnerabilities were exposed by stronger attackers during Leeds’ previous Premier League campaign.
While Firpo has been one of the standout players in the Championship, where Leeds dominate most games, his weaknesses could become a liability in the Premier League.
Leeds appear to be preparing for his departure, as the club is reportedly considering a bid for Spanish full-back Hugo Bueno, who has impressed at Feyenoord this season.
Leeds are actively seeking a left-back, and it seems clear that the club expects Firpo to leave on a free transfer this summer.