Leeds United tipped to hand 2020 signing a new contract if they earn promotion, his current deal expires in 2026

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Leeds United have a few player contracts coming to an end in 2025 and 2026, with some potentially alarming ones for Daniel Farke to consider too.

Leeds United currently have a handful of players out of a contract in 2025, with one being Junior Firpo.

The full-back, who is currently injured, could end up leaving as a free agent next summer, with Daniel Farke refusing to comment on Firpo’s future at the club.

Others include Sam Byram and Josuha Guilavogui. Those out of contract in 2026 though may be more alarming for Farke and the 49ers, they include: Dan James, Patrick Bamford, Karl Darlow, Alex Cairns, and Illan Meslier, who joined on a permanent basis in 2020.

Leeds don’t have a first-team goalkeeper contracted beyond 2026 and that might explain why Leeds are being linked with Caoimhin Kelleher ahead of the January transfer window.

Meslier remains the no.1. But the Frenchman has interest ahead of the New Year, with Arsenal and Manchester United keen on Meslier, per reports.

• READ MORE: Leeds United identify Caoimhin Kelleher alternative who’d cost 49ers just £1.1m in January

Illan Meslier tipped to seal new Leeds United contract in 2025

Speaking to Football League World, pundit Carlton Palmer has discussed the latest on Meslier’s future at Elland Road.

He explained: “A lot will depend on whether Leeds United get back to the Premier League and I can’t see Leeds selling him in the January transfer window, certainly not with the way they’re going, looking to get automatic promotion.”

Leeds United beat Stoke City 2-0 on Boxing Day and returned to the top of the Championship table after Sheffield United lost against Burnley.

Palmer continued: “If Leeds United get promoted then I think Illan will be offered a new contract and they’ll be in the Premier League, but I cannot see Leeds United selling him in the January transfer window.”

• READ MORE: Leeds United fans all in agreement over Ethan Ampadu after Stoke City, one thing is clear

Illan Meslier has his eyes on one thing, it could spell his Leeds United exit

Like Palmer says, if Leeds don’t get promoted then Meslier and indeed a handful of others could be on their way out of the club.

Speaking to Leeds United News earlier in the season, transfer expert Graeme Bailey said Meslier wants to play in the 2026 World Cup with France, and that he’s very well-regarded in his home country with the likes of Rennes having shown an interest in Meslier.

Bailey said: “He’s very highly regarded in France. Meslier has got his eyes on the World Cup squad in 2026.

“If Leeds don’t get promoted, he will leave. I don’t think any Leeds fans will want to stand in his way.”

For the time being, Farke will be focussed on the upcoming fixtures, and then on any incoming bids for Meslier who remains an important member of the XI.