The 49ers have had a busy start to the summer when it comes to negotiating contracts with multiple Leeds United players.
Ethan Ampadu signed a new multi-year extension with the Whites. However, they were unable to convince Pascal Struijk to sign an extension of his own. This ultimately resulted in Struijk’s move to Brighton.
United are still in negotiations with the likes of Sam Byram and Karl Darlow over potential extensions. With the pair currently being free agents as things stand.
But according to the latest reports, Leeds look set to open fresh contract talks with another member of Daniel Farke’s squad.
Leeds United to open contract talks with Brenden Aaronson upon return from the World Cup
Despite being an incredibly frustrating watch for the majority of the time, last season was arguably Brenden Aaronson’s most impressive since joining Leeds for £25million back in 2022.
The American was used in a host of positions by Farke last season. He played out on the wing, as part of a midfield three and up top just off the main striker.
In total, Aaronson scored four goals and provided five assists in 37 Premier League appearances last season. So naturally, with his contract expiring in 2027, it’s no surprise to see reports claiming Leeds want to extend his stay in West Yorkshire.
According to Football Insider, Leeds plan to hold fresh contract talks with Aaronson when he returns from the World Cup. The 25-year-old is said to have no desire to move away at the moment. So you would imagine these extension talks would be fairly straightforward.
Given the hefty fee he was signed for, potentially letting Aaronson run his contract down would be a bad look for the 49ers. So even if Aaronson does not see out the entirety of his contract extension, at least it gives United more bargaining power should they wish to sell him in the future.
Brenden Aaronson could find gametime harder to come by next season
Harry Wilson has finally been confirmed as a Leeds player. So, you would imagine the Welshman would become Farke’s first-choice right winger next season.
Furthermore, if Leeds are successful in their pursuit of Shea Charles, this will further increase the competition for places in midfield.
Last season, Farke was heavily criticised for playing Aaronson too much. But next season, the American could potentially find it a lot harder to get into the starting XI. Especially if we sign Charles too.
Overall, this is likely a good thing. There is certainly still a role to play for Aaronson as we establish ourselves in the top flight.
But if we’re all being honest, he just doesn’t possess enough quality in the final third to be relied upon regularly.
Aaronson played 2473 Premier League minutes last season, according to Sofascore. The 49ers need to sign enough quality players this summer to the point where this number can be reduced drastically.
So whilst we should absolutely renew Aaronson’s contract, his role within the team also needs to be altered.
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