Saturday’s retained list showed Leeds United were set to wave goodbye to 11 players – the most-senior of which is midfielder Josuha Guilavogui, who departs having joined in October.
Guilavogui is the only senior player to depart with 10 players being named as leaving when their deals end come June 30. They include the likes of Luca Thomas, Cian Coleman and plenty of other U21 stars.
The retained list however, confirms that Junior Firpo and Sam Byram remain in talks with the hierarchy at Elland Road. Firpo is expected to leave despite urging Paraag Marathe to send him a new Leeds contract.
Plenty of clubs have been linked in recent weeks. His old side Betis were front runners, while Milan, Lazio, Atletico Madrid and Barcelona have all been offered the chance to sign the Dominican Republic player.
Now, Real Betis make surprise decision on Junior Firpo
The Europa Conference League finalists have done plenty of business with Leeds. In the summer of 2023, they signed Marc Roca on loan. A year later, they signed Roca permanently and landed Diego Llorente.
In January 2025, Betis – who are managed by Manuel Pellegrini – saw an offer for Mateo Joseph rejected by Leeds. Betis remain in the hunt to land the Spain U21 star, as well as constantly being linked with Firpo.
However, a report from Mundo Betis says that Firpo is not currently an option for Betis. That is despite Firpo confessing his love for Betis of late and the Spanish side being strongly touted as his next club.
Why Leeds may opt against Junior Firpo staying at Elland Road
Leeds players have received a 50-60% pay rise after promotion, having reduced cuts in wages after relegation. If Firpo remained on his current terms, he would return to the figure it was when he arrived.
Firpo struggled in the Premier League with Leeds. He looks excellent when Leeds are on the front foot and trying to score goals, but when the focus is more on defending – Firpo’s weaknesses are on show.
Some players simply play better for sides at the top of the division and in Firpo’s example, he is that. He is better going forward as a marauding wing-back, then being a defensive full-back and that is a concern.
With Leeds promoted, The Whites will inevitably be fighting relegation and required to defend more than attack next season. Perhaps, given his wages and his defensive struggles, Leeds are opting against a deal.
