Joe Rodon has just given Daniel Farke another major reason to keep Junior Firpo at Leeds United

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Junior Firpo seems to be heading for the exit door at Leeds United as the 49ers will need to make a decision on his future.

Leeds’ left-back has arguably been their most important asset this season, after Firpo has 11 goal contributions from defence this campaign.

The likes of Dan James and Ao Tanaka will have something to say about that, but Firpo has come up in the big moments recently, after scoring two in two games.

Chris Wilder called Firpo ‘outstanding’ and the Leeds fans wouldn’t disagree as it should surely be a no brainer to keep the Dominican Republic international next season.

It’s become apparent that the left-back’s future is up in the air, but after Firpo changed his agent, he could only be heading one way. Joe Rodon has revealed exactly why Firpo should stay, and it’s not because of his ability.

Joe Rodon gives Leeds United a reason to keep Junior Firpo

With Firpo’s time at the club ticking down, the 49ers need to sort something out soon before other clubs come looking for a bargain.

It was said that Betis wanted Firpo to return, as the Spanish side developed the left-back in the early stages of his career.

But Leeds will want to avoid any chance of losing Firpo to the Spaniards, and Rodon has explained exactly why.

Speaking to BBC Sport West Yorkshire, the Welshman said: “With Ethan (Ampadu) not being on the pitch, I guess there’s a bit of that (being more of a leader).

“But there’s a lot of other leaders in this dressing room. Especially people like Junior.”

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Leeds would make a vital error in letting Firpo leave for free

It’s unclear how Firpo feels about the situation, but if Leeds have the control, surely they must think it would be bizarre to let the defender go on a free.

The 28-year-old has had a mixed time at Elland Road since joining in the 21/22 season, but this has been far and away his best season in a Leeds shirt.

Wilder is already stunned by how good the full-back is, and Tony Mowbray thinks Firpo is ‘amazing’ which is saying a lot coming from managerial veterans.

If Firpo wants to leave, then it’s out of Leeds’ hands, but if they are given a chance, the 49ers need to tie him down, otherwise there will be an uproar.