Leeds United
Paraag Marathe. Credit: Imago
Leeds United are months away from completing their first season returning to the top flight. It was a long battle in the Championship for Daniel Farke’s men to reach the Premier League.
A season-long battle with Burnley ended on the final day, with Leeds lifting the Championship on their way to promotion. The Premier League has been really difficult for the Whites; it has been much tougher competition. The 49ers spent over £100 million in the summer trying to improve the quality of the team, but even that has not been enough. Leeds United have eight games to go to save their season, with the club just four points above the relegation zone.
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Three players set to leave Leeds United this summer
Whatever happens at the end of the season, this summer is set to be an active one for the 49ers. Plans have already emerged, with the club set to target a new striker. Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s dip in form from the start of this year has urged the club to find competition for the England man. Leeds United have a host of players who are already on their way out of Elland Road in the coming months.
Sam Byram
Many fans were surprised when Sam Byram’s contract was renewed. He was a very good depth option when the team were in the Championship, and his versatility was key. But when the club renewed his contract and then signed an arguably better option in James Justin, the veteran became irrelevant. Byram has just four appearances this season with 90 minutes in total. His contract is up in the summer, and the club will definitely let him go
Illan Meslier
The Meslier saga in the summer was a topic the fans continued to monitor. After he was benched in the run in during promotion, many knew his Leeds United career was over. Daniel Farke made it clear, when the Whites brought in Lucas Perri this summer. However, the 49ers held on to the Frenchman in hopes of getting a transfer fee. This has now backfired, with the 25-year old set to leave for free.
Ao Tanaka
This season has been one to forget for Ao Tanaka, from being the star player in midfield last season to being on the bench this campaign. The Japanese international was voted Leeds United Players’ Player of the year just last season and now he is struggling for games. And with Daniel Farke reluctant to use him as the season progresses, the best option for the midfielder would be to leave the club.