Daniel Farke’s future at Leeds United has been the most discussed topic since the end of last season. Many are expecting him to extend his stay, following talks with the board.
Last season, he did an incredible job leading the Whites to a 14th placed finish and comfortably avoiding relegation.
Not many managers have done better than the German since he took charge at Elland Road. He won them promotion and is guiding them to what looks like another impressive campaign.
However, Farke is not the only one at Elland Road with contract issues.
There are two players in the first team who are out of contract next summer, and the situation involving their futures could not be much different.
Major contract update emerges at Elland Road as 2027 exit looms
Lukas Nmecha. Credit: IMAGO
Lukas Nmecha is one that has been discussed since the season started. The striker joined Leeds United as a free agent last year, signing a two-year deal after leaving the Bundesliga.
Nmecha was a reliable forward option and provided key goals off the bench and as a starter. His future is unclear, with reports that he could look to leave before the summer. Bundesliga clubs are interested in him, but it is not clear if he will move in January.
Ilia Gruev is another Leeds player out of contract in 2027.
The Bulgarian recently returned from a long-term injury which ended his season last year. He was very capable when called upon by Farke, even benching Longstaff and Tanaka.
Beren Cross has shared some insight on the future of both Nmecha and Gruev. Speaking on The Square Ball podcast, Cross revealed that Leeds United have a option to extend Nmecha’s deal before next summer.
However, Gruev’s contract has no such clause, which leaves him in more danger to leave the club.
“His (Nmecha’s) and Gruev’s are due to run out. I’m led to believe Nmecha’s has an option,” Cross said.
“I would assume if Leeds wanted to ward off any suitors, they would need to say that needs to be triggered, which negates Nmecha talking to other clubs. That isn’t the case with Gruev.”
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What happens next?
Neither Nmecha or Gruev are set to sign a new deal, there is nothing on that front.
What seems to be the priority for Leeds United is Daniel Farke’s future. Per multiple reports, the deal is closer than ever, given the German coach changing intermediaries in recent weeks.
Essentially, Lukas Nmecha and Ilia Gruev are playing for their futures for the rest of the season.
If they impress, then the Whites may offer them a new deal after the end of the campaign.
