Leeds United have the opportunity to improve the first-team squad this summer, regardless of the division they find themselves in between now and the end of the season.
The Whites remain in a solid position to claim promotion from the Championship, currently occupying second place under Daniel Farke - with the German having the chance to win his third second-tier title.
However, the last few weeks have seen the side stutter towards the finish line, winning just one of the last five matches, surrendering their lead at the top of the table.
daniel farke
The last clash in the league saw Farke’s men draw 2-2 with Swansea City after a 97th-minute equaliser from Zan Vipotnik secured an unlikely point for the visitors.
One player in particular failed to deliver during the clash with the Welsh outfit, leading to questions over his long-term future at Elland Road, with many unhappy with his recent showings.
Illan Meslier’s future at Leeds United
Goalkeeper Illan Meslier has been Farke’s number-one option between the sticks this season but has often produced a moment of madness, costing the side all three points.
He made two separate errors against the Swans at the weekend, with his penalty save forgotten after his mistakes which handed the visitors a point in Yorkshire.
meslier-championship-leeds-united
The Frenchman hasn’t been a stranger to a mistake this campaign, currently having a goals prevented xG of -2.7 - massively impacting the club’s chances of getting promoted.
Regardless of what division the club find themselves in next season, Farke must part ways with the 25-year-old if the side are to reach the next level - with his mistakes ultimately too costly.
However, the goalkeeper shouldn’t be the only player to depart the club this summer, with the manager brutally needing to part ways with one player who’s not at the level required for the top flight.
The Leeds star who wouldn’t cut it in the PL
Ahead of the summer, numerous players' contracts are set to expire, with time running out for the hierarchy to secure an extension on players whose deals are coming to an end.
Junior Firpo is just one first-team member who could depart Elland Road this summer, with the Spaniard no closer to agreeing a new contract - with teams in Spain already registering interest in his services.
firpo-leeds-farke
Sam Bryam is another player who could leave this window, with the club needing to avoid offering him a new deal - especially if they are to achieve promotion by the end of the year.
The 31-year-old, who’s been labelled “reliable” by one analyst, is currently in his second spell with the Whites, after rejoining on a free transfer in the summer of 2023.
The right-back has been a valuable squad member this campaign, making 30 appearances - but only 15 have come from a starting role, with the likes of Firpo and Jayden Bogle ahead of him.
However, the stats he’s produced are unfortunately not up to the level of a Premier League standard, with the 49ers needing higher quality players if they are to maintain their top-flight status if they secure promotion.
Sam Byram's stats for Leeds United in 2024/25
Statistics (per 90)
Games played
Games started
Pass accuracy
Touches per 90
Tackles won
Duels won
Aerials won
Stats via FotMob
There’s no denying he’s been a tremendous servant for the club over the years, but ultimately he’s coming to the back end of his career with Farke needing to offload him and invest in new blood.
It will be a harsh decision to part ways with him given his extended time with the Whites, but unfortunately, the club need to do what is right if they are to be more competitive in the years ahead, whether that’s in the Championship or the Premier League.
Meslier-Leeds Related
[Leeds sold Meslier upgrade for just £1.4m, now he's a "superstar"](https://www.footballfancast.com/leeds-sold-meslier-upgrade-elia-caprile-now-hes-a-superstar/ "Leeds sold Meslier upgrade for just £1.4m, now he's a "superstar"")
Leeds United will now rue getting rid of this Illan Meslier alternative.