Leeds United have encountered a few bumps in the road when it comes to contract renewals this summer, and the club have now identified their next priority.
Alex Cairns is the only senior player to have signed a new deal so far. By contrast, Leeds were forced to sell Pascal Struijk to Brighton for what many felt was a modest fee after it became clear he had no intention of extending his contract.
There is also uncertainty surrounding Karl Darlow. Leeds are still trying to persuade the experienced goalkeeper to commit to fresh terms, but interest from Manchester United, who are keen to sign him on a free transfer, has complicated matters.
Several other first-team players are now entering the final year of their contracts, and Leeds have made securing one of those key stars to a new deal a priority over the coming months. At the same time, the club are preparing for every eventuality and already have a contingency plan in place if negotiations fail.
Leeds set Brenden Aaronson asking price if contract talks stall
Brenden Aaronson, whose World Cup campaign ended when the United States lost to Belgium in the last 16 clash this week, has a year left on his contract.
He remains a favourite of Daniel Farke and the Leeds boss wants the midfielder to sign a new long-term contract with the club.
The Whites have made securing his long-term future a priority and are set to hold talks over a new contract once he returns for pre-season training.
However, Leeds are also mindful about the possibility of losing him on a free transfer next summer and want to avoid that at all costs.
Sources speaking exclusively to The Leeds Press have confirmed that Leeds have also set an asking price in case negotiations do not go according to plan.
Leeds are prepared to sell Aaronson if contract talks stall and want a deal worth £15m before agreeing to sell him.
They are in no mood to allow him to run down his contract if a new agreement is not reached, and a contingency plan is already in place.
The Whites have a big decision to make
Brenden Aaronson continues to enjoy Daniel Farke’s full backing, thanks largely to his tireless work rate and willingness to do the hard yards for the team. The United States international was an important part of Leeds United’s squad throughout last season.
That said, his end product remained a concern. Despite his energy and commitment, Aaronson struggled to provide the goals and creativity Leeds often lacked in the final third.
With just one year left on his contract, this summer could represent Leeds’ best chance to cash in and reinvest in a more creative attacking midfielder.
Even so, Farke appears convinced that Aaronson still has an important role to play at Elland Road and is keen for the midfielder to sign a new contract despite his underwhelming attacking returns.
How can you keep selling, giving away , out of contract players when your not buying anyone?