Leeds United are just five games away from knowing what next season holds. The atmosphere around the club has been very positive this past week.
Two wins from their last two league games has seen them go eight points clear of the relegation zone. 39 points has been enough for safety in the past few seasons in the Premier League, so fans have a reason to be confident. This week will be a very important point of the season for the Whites, they face Bournemouth midweek before their FA Cup semi final clash. Whatever happens in the next few days could determine how the season ends going forward.
Simon Rix urges Leeds to give new contract to first team star
The summer is set to be a very important one for the club, Leeds will have a lot of decisions to make when it comes to the first team. The club loaned out a host of players last summer, and it is unlikely any of them manage to get a permanent deal. There are already reports that the club could be active in the market, as some positions need improvements.
Reports have emerged that Leeds are targeting a few goalkeepers in the coming months. This could have to do with Karl Darlow, whose contract is set to expire soon. Simon Rix believes Leeds United must hand goalkeeper Karl Darlow a new contract. He thinks the 35-year old still has a lot to offer the club in the near future.
”It’s a test for the recruitment people of getting the right decision here. You’ve got to give Darlow a year. Even if you’re saying to him, you might end up being number three. He’s a bit older in age, so maybe give him a few years to be that experienced guy around the squad.” Rix said on the Don’t Go To Bed Just Yet podcast.
“He was very good with [Lucas] Perri as well when he was having a bad time. When we’ve been in the FA Cup games, Darlow has been very supportive.
“It’s about working out exactly how that contract looks, but I think you’ve got to. He’s been reliable and good. I think it’s just whether you go out and get another one and you’ve got to, haven’t you?”
READ MORE: £12m Leeds United star handed Elland Road lifeline after Daniel Farke comments
49ers need to address goalkeeping situation this summer
The coming months could see the Whites have just one first team goalkeeper under contract. As things stand, Illan Meslier, Karl Darlow and Alex Cairns are all set to leave Elland Road in the summer when their contracts expire. Meslier has wanted to leave the club for a while, and will not hesitate to at the end of the season. Leeds will probably let go of Cairns, but a key decision will be about Darlow’s future. Reports claim that other Premier League clubs are interested in the veteran, which could complicate a possible extension. The 49ers seriously need to address this part of the squad ahead of next season.
