Leeds United will have to make some key contract decisions at the end of the season.
The Whites have seven players whose contracts will expire in the summer, however it appears that a majority of
them have already made their decision.
Stalwarts Liam Cooper, Stuart Dallas, and Luke Ayling are among those with only a few months remaining, and it
seems unlikely that they will be handed new contracts. The latter went on loan to Middlesbrough in January, and his
departure was traumatic.
Sam Byram is the only other regular first-team player in this circumstance, with Jamie Shackleton, Ian Poveda, and
Lewis Bate rounding out the group.
Daniel Farke highlighted the potential of Shackleton being handed a new contract yesterday, but according to the
Athletic, a decision has already been made on Poveda’s future.
According to reports, Leeds are ‘likely’ not to grant Poveda a new contract, and he has played his final game for the
club after joining Sheffield Wednesday on loan on deadline day.
Farke stated following Leeds’ win over Bristol City last week that Poveda had sought to leave the club because he
wanted to play more regularly, which was not possible at Elland Road.
The Leeds manager stated they were’reluctant’ to offer Poveda a new contract, but this newest development, his lack
of game time, and desire to join Sheffield Wednesday mean the writing is on the wall.
Poveda also expressed his satisfaction with leaving the club last week, and given that it is only a loan move to South
Yorkshire, he will now have to prove himself to gain a permanent contract someplace.
Having said that, regardless of division, this summer appears to be a turning point for Leeds United.
