The focus at Elland Road this summer seems to be bringing in new faces through the door. But Leeds United fans should know that they will also have to offload some players.
The club’s retained list came out this week. Josuha Guilavogui is currently the only first team player confirmed to be leaving the club next month. Leeds have decided to discuss contract extensions with Sam Byram and Junior Firpo.
Daniel Farke and the technical team may have realized how bare the fullback position would be if both players left.
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European club will sign Leeds United star on one condition
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Byram mentioned during the title celebrations that he was keen on staying at Elland Road for another year. Firpo on the other hand, has constantly been linked with a move away since the season began.
The 28-year old has been in the news since last week. Reports claimed that his agency flew out to meet Lazio in Italy last week. There was no deal on the table, and the meeting was just for general discussions. Il Messaggero in Italy are now reporting that the Serie A club have made a decision now.
Lazio sporting director Angelo Mariano Fabiani is evaluating a move for Firpo. He has decided that if the club do make a move for the Leeds United star, he would arrive to play as a winger.
Firpo had four goals and 10 assists in the Championship this season.
Should Leeds try Firpo as a winger?
In the unlikely scenario Leeds do retain Junior Firpo, should he be converted to a winger? There are obvious weaknesses of him playing at fullback. He was quite exposed in the Championship, and it is expected to be even more in the Premier League. Firpo’s qualities are very evident when he is attacking.
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The suggestion of playing him as a winger is not rational. Daniel Farke’s system actually accommodates him as a player that operates high up the pitch. Firpo had 718 touches in the Attacking third this season, ranking in the top five players – three of which are attackers.
I reckon that could work