Leeds United Sticks to Status Quo After Expectation-Filled Retained List
Leeds United’s recently revealed retained list delivered few surprises as the club gears up for a transformative summer ahead of the 2025-26 Premier League campaign. As expected, Josuha Guilavogui will depart when his contract expires, while Junior Firpo and Sam Byram remain in negotiations over potential new deals.
Manor Solomon’s temporary return to Tottenham underlines the fluid nature of Leeds’ squad planning, but the real focus lies elsewhere. With Illan Meslier likely to move on before his deal runs out in 2026, securing a top-class goalkeeper has emerged as a top priority for new sporting director Adam Underwood and head of recruitment Alex Davies.
In my view, Leeds’ decision to offload fringe players and target reinforcements between the sticks makes strategic sense. Yet the club must balance ambition with pragmatism if it hopes to avoid another relegation scare next season.
Champions League Heartbreak for Strasbourg Fuels Leeds’ £16m Pursuit
Strasbourg’s dream of qualifying for the Champions League collapsed in dramatic fashion on the final day of Ligue 1, as they succumbed to a 3-2 defeat by Le Havre. The loss not only squandered a shot at Europe’s elite competition but also handed Leeds United a golden opportunity in the transfer market.
Djordje Petrovic, Strasbourg’s keeper who excelled all season, was widely tipped to commit permanently to the French side—until their European hopes were dashed. Now, with reduced revenue streams, Strasbourg look unlikely to retain their Player of the Season, opening the door for Leeds to pounce on a bargain £16m deal.
My take: this represents a shrewd piece of business if Leeds can secure Petrovic’s signature. His proven Premier League pedigree and stellar form make him a low-risk gamble that could pay dividends in maintaining Leeds’ top-flight status.
Petrovic’s Stellar Stats Make Him Top Target This Summer
Djordje Petrovic delivered a breakout campaign in 2024-25, registering 10 clean sheets across 31 Ligue 1 fixtures despite playing for a side fighting for European qualification. His save percentage of 74.5% ranks second in the French top flight, showcasing his shot-stopping prowess week after week.
Beyond pure shot-stopping, Petrovic averaged over 50 touches per match and demonstrated excellent distribution skills—an increasingly vital trait for modern goalkeepers. His ability to command the penalty area and initiate attacks from the back has not gone unnoticed by clubs seeking a reliable No.1.
Editorial note: With interest also reported from German giants Bayer Leverkusen, Leeds face stiff competition. But at the right price, Petrovic could be the missing piece that transforms their defensive frailties into a foundation for sustained Premier League survival.
