Leeds United published their retain list over the weekend, like most clubs in England. The list details who is expected to stay at their respective clubs at the end of the current season.
Aside youth players reaching the end of their contracts, the only senior player leaving this summer is Josuha Guilavogui. Joe Rothwell and Manor Solomon will return to their parent clubs after their loan deals. In a surprising twist, the club will hold talks with Sam Byram and Junior Firpo.
The duo were expected to leave at the end of the season, but it looks like one of the two could remain. As it stands, Junior Firpo could be the one who leaves. Multiple reports have indicated that European clubs are very interested in signing the 28-year old.
QUIZ: Can you name the team Leeds United sold these players to?
Leeds United target European star
Credit: Imago Images
If Firpo does leave, Leeds could be without a first team left back ahead of the summer window. So far, there have been links with Liverpool star Kostas Tsimikas, but a deal has not been confirmed.
According to TBR football, Leeds United are interested in signing Union Berlin defender Josip Juranovic. The 29-year old is said to be attracting a lot of interest from the Premier League this summer. West Ham, Fulham and Burnley are also in the race to sign the Croatian. With two years left on his deal, Union Berlin may demand a small fee to complete the deal.
Daniel Farke’s contacts in the Bundesliga could help seal the deal, after making transfers for Illia Gruev and Ao Tanaka in recent seasons.
Juranovic offers flexible option in defence
The former World Cup semi-finalist with Croatia is a very versatile player. He can play on both flanks as a fullback and even operate as a wingback.
He offers a more creative solution as a fullback and will not directly provide output compared to more attacking options. Leeds could do with such a player, especially with the situation involving Junior Firpo and Sam Byram.
