The likes of Junior Firpo and Josuha Guilavogui were let go by Leeds United upon the expiry of their contracts this summer.
Others such as Dan James and Ethan Ampadu need new deals but Leeds United are primarily focused on making new signings to bolster their Premier League ranks ahead of the season.
There have been developments in recent days, however, with Sam Byram signing fresh terms for a third consecutive one-year deal at Elland Road.
But reports initially stated that Leeds would not extend Byram’s contract at Elland Road this summer and allow him to leave on a free. That was before other reports stated a contract offer was on the table for Byram.
Byram didn’t want to leave Leeds and is now extending his Leeds stay into a seventh season across two separate stints in West Yorkshire.
Sam Byram signs new Leeds deal and fans are worried about his role in the squad
Leeds will sign at least one more full-back to compete with Jayden Bogle, Isaac Schmidt, and new-boy Gabriel Gudmundsson, but Byram will also cover both full-back positions.
His versatility by being able to operate at both right and left-back was useful in the Championship, but the Premier League is a different beast of a league for a 31-year-old injury-prone full-back.
Leeds fans were shocked at news of initial Byram talks, and that played a huge part in their reasoning at the time. However experienced he is, fans are worried at the club’s stance on how important a role he has on the pitch.
Another added: “Byram second choice LB is absolutely horrendous in the prem.”
A further Leeds fan remarked: “Definitely need more depth at LB , Byram is ok as an option but he can’t be our only cover. If we loose Gudmindsson to injury there’s no guarantee Byram would be able to stay fit . #lufc”
A further response read: “Byram understudy to Gudmundsson? Wow. #lufc”
Simon Grayson says Byram is an “unsung hero” of the team, but it’s fair to say most Leeds fans aren’t viewing that the same way as him.
It doesn’t appear as though they have an issue with a new deal, per se. However, many of them are concerned about his role and position in the pecking order, according to Beren Cross’ update.
Sam Byram’s first words after signing new Leeds contract
Byram also thinks Daniel Farke saved his career, but he had plenty to say during his first interview after penning another one-year deal.
“Over the moon to get this over the line and to be back in for day one of pre-season is the best news ever.
“Obviously, it’s a huge challenge ahead. But one that I am dead excited for and I’m hopeful to add my experience from the past and do whatever I can for the club to help.
“I’ve said in the past it was a dream of mine to get promoted with Leeds and then, obviously, to be around for the Premier League season is that one step forward and it’s something I’m so grateful for.
“To reach the Premier League with your boyhood club… you know, when you’re younger, it seems out of reach. As the years have gone on, it’s just something I can’t believe that’s happened.
“We need to not underestimate the task ahead. It’s a huge task.”
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