Leeds United have shifted their focus towards the longer-term planning of the squad, including deciding what the future holds for several players.
The Whites have enjoyed a promising return to the Premier League so far and will be confident of avoiding being dragged into a relegation battle if they can maintain their early momentum. There is plenty of optimism around Elland Road, with the club looking to build on their strong start.
Leeds have already tied down several important members of the squad, handing new contracts to Ethan Ampadu, Jayden Bogle and Brenden Aaronson. Talks are also continuing over a fresh agreement for Daniel Farke as the club look to maintain stability both on and off the pitch.
However, not everyone has the same level of security. A number of players are entering the final year of their current contracts, and Leeds have now reached a significant decision regarding the future of one of those players.
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Leeds ready to sell key player in January
Lukas Nmecha is in the final year of his contract, and there is talk that the forward is looking to leave the club on a free transfer at the end of the season.
However, it emerged over the weekend that Leeds will open preliminary talks with the striker and his camp over a new deal in the coming days and weeks.
Leeds want to gauge whether the forward is open to signing an extension before discussing the details of a new contract with his representatives.
However, according to Football FanCast, Leeds have no plans to allow him to run down his contract and leave on a free transfer next summer.
They have made it clear to the forward that he would be sold if he doesn’t agree to sign a new contract with the club in the coming months.
Leeds have no intention of losing him on a free transfer and are prepared to cash in during the January window if he doesn’t sign a new contract.
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Leeds United are right in this situation
From Leeds’ point of view, it is a decision that makes plenty of sense. Allowing Nmecha to enter the final six months of his contract without any clarity over his future would put the club in a weak negotiating position.
Considering he is currently playing second fiddle to Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Leeds could even benefit from moving him on during the January window and using that opportunity to bring in a different attacking option.
Rather than leaving Farke short of alternatives, replacing Nmecha with a forward better suited to the manager’s plans could potentially give Leeds greater strength and depth up front.
