Jermaine Beckford is absolutely right to insist Leeds United must make Ethan Ampadu’s new contract their first piece of business this summer because the Welshman has become the foundation of Daniel Farke’s side on and off the pitch.
After being voted Leeds United’s Player of the Season, Ampadu now heads into a crucial stage of the deal he signed for Leeds United in 2023, and there should be no debate about securing his long-term future.
Beckford’s argument is difficult to challenge because Ampadu has evolved into Leeds’ leader in every sense. Speaking to Leeds Live, former Leeds striker Beckford ordered the club to give Ampadu a new deal.
“It’s vital. You look at what he’s been able to achieve since he signed for the club. The steps he’s made to improve himself on a personal level, but also those around him. And that’s the sign of a true leader.
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“He does dictate play by being vocal. Off the pitch, he leads by example. His work ethic, his work rate, his determination, his drive. The way he puts his body on the line, he’s not afraid to get kicked in the head.
“He’s the guy that everybody looks up to. He’s come on leaps and bounds since he first signed. The respect he gets all over the place is justified. For me, he has to be the first signing of the summer.”
Those comments carry weight because Ampadu is no longer simply an important player for Leeds. He has become the player that sets standards across the squad.
Daniel Farke has already made his feelings on Ampadu clear
Farke has repeatedly underlined how important Ampadu is to the structure of his side. Earlier this season, the Leeds manager described him as the club’s most important player.
It says everything about how highly he values the midfielder. More recently, Farke strongly suggested Leeds understand the importance of resolving his contract situation quickly.
That should now become the club’s priority because replacing a player with his leadership, versatility and tactical intelligence would be almost impossible.
Ampadu’s 2025-26 Premier League numbers prove his importance
Ampadu’s influence is backed up by his performances throughout the 2025-26 Premier League campaign. His numbers place him among Leeds’ leaders for recoveries, tackles and successful defensive actions.
He has again been one of the most reliable players in possession. The midfielder has also continued to show why Farke trusts him so heavily in big moments.
His defensive contribution and consistency have allowed Leeds to remain competitive in difficult matches, while his ability to organise those around him remains central to the side’s shape.
That is what makes Beckford’s argument so convincing. Leeds are not discussing a squad player or a useful option. They are discussing the footballer who holds the entire team together.
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Leeds cannot build their Premier League future without Ampadu
Leeds will add players this summer, but none of those deals should come before securing Ampadu’s future. Allowing uncertainty to develop around the captain creates a completely unnecessary problem.
Ampadu has already proven his value through leadership, consistency and elite professionalism. Beckford is correct that the first signing of the summer should not be a new arrival at all.
It should be making sure the most important player at the club remains at the centre of Farke’s project for years to come. Adam Underwood should be listening, give Ampadu whatever he wants this summer.
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