The Dominican Republic explain why Leeds United’s Junior Firpo is returning early in official statement

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Junior Firpo has withdrawn from international duty with the Dominican Republic amid concerns regarding his Leeds United future.

The 28-year-old’s Leeds United contract expires at the end of this month, with Junior Firpo probably still be weighing up his decision and with Firpo in talks with Leeds over a new deal.

Firpo’s agents say remaining with Leeds is ‘unlikely’ at the moment, and Barcelona could be a potential destination for Firpo, as well as AC Milan.

A number of Europe’s biggest names have registered interest, with Lyon are said to have offered Firpo a contract and Lazio have also shown an interest in taking Firpo on a free transfer.

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Junior Firpo returns to Leeds from international duty due to injury discomfort

Firpo joining Lazio now looks unlikely, which means one club is out of the frame, but uncertainty remains after four years with the club. Some Leeds fans want Firpo to leave this summer as well.

Injury issues hampered Firpo in every season he played for Leeds, but particularly the two Premier League campaigns. However, he also missed the final game of the season against Plymouth Argyle.

Sam Byram took his place at left-back as Leeds won a dramatic game 2-1 and Firpo watched from the sidelines. It seems as though he is not over the worst of his injury issues just yet, however.

The official account of the Dominican Republic national team has the latest. Their statement reads: “Junior Firpo is leaving the Dominican national team after experiencing minor physical discomfort that he had been experiencing since the end of the season.

“The player joined the group for training on May 27, but after being evaluated by the medical and technical staff, the decision was made jointly for him to return home as a precaution, with his well-being and long-term care in mind first.

“We deeply appreciate Junior’s commitment to the jersey and to his country. We hope to see him again soon, defending our colours with the heart he always brings to every call-up.”

It’s unclear if it is the exactly same injury, but it’s safe to assume that the discomfort has been there for a while now for Firpo and he needs more time to rest and heal.

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Junior Firpo’s injury issues are a huge red flag for Leeds

Graham Smyth says there are obstacles to overcome regarding Firpo’s extension with Leeds, and he expects Firpo’s contract length to be an issue.

Given he came from Barcelona, it’s safe to assume his wages are astronomically high for a Leeds team where he would not necessarily be a guaranteed starter next season.

His Championship record has been nothing short of phenomenal but it could be considered too big of a risk to overlook for their next steps in the Premier League.

He would be capable as a deputy and as a different option, but Firpo has a lot of red flags in availability terms. Leeds cannot afford too many risks when they will more than likely be fighting off relegation.