The start of the transfer window last month was the chance for Leeds United to assess the squad. Now, in July, serious decisions will be made.
Leeds marked some players available for sale at the beginning of June. Illan Meslier was offered to clubs and Max Wober revealed that he had been told to find a new team this summer.
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They were not alone, as former U21 trio Sam Greenwood, Darko Gyabi and Joe Gelhardt have all been made available this summer. Leeds expect to get some profit from the three players.
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Leeds United confirm Junior Firpo exit
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The start of July is a very important period for a lot of clubs. It is the time when most contracts around the country expire. Leeds had two players in this situation – Sam Byram and Junior Firpo. The club announced in their retained list that they would hold talks with the fullback duo. A new deal was offered to Firpo, but he has reportedly turned it down.
On Tuesday morning, Leeds United confirmed the departure of the 28-year old left back from the club. He is widely expected to sign a deal with his former club Real Betis. The club shared a parting message for him on their website:
”…Junior has played a huge part for the football club both on and off the pitch during his time at Leeds United. His infectious personality made him a popular figure at Thorp Arch, as well as with supporters when he represented the club during his many community appearances.
He now moves on to a new challenge having played 119 times for Leeds and will always be remembered in history as part of a title-winning team.”
Firpo joins Joe Rothwell and Manor Solomon, whose departures were also confirmed on Tuesday.
Firpo will be hard to replace
Last season, the defender contributed to 14 goals (four goals, 10 assists). His presence down the left was a major reason why Leeds has a serious attacking threat.
Replacing him will not be easy; he created 47 chances in the Championship – the fourth highest in the team. Leeds will need to find some serious quality to replace him.
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