When it comes to Junior Firpo’s future at Leeds United, there are two trains of thought. Some look at his body of work over the last two years and feel it is a no-brainer to hand him a new deal.
The more pragmatic fan may suggest however, that his first two years in the Premier League were woeful. Firpo is an attacking full-back who thrives on getting forward, but his weaknesses are having to defend.
In the Championship under Daniel Farke, Leeds scored more goals than any team and Firpo had a hand in 15 goals – from left-back. That is an incredible achievement, highlighting just how good he is in attack.
But Farke is a believer in a back four. He has not played with a back three and wing-backs, which may suit Firpo slightly more, giving him the license to get forward. In the Premier League, he will need to defend.
Aidy White explains why Leeds may not offer Junior Firpo a deal
The Dominican Republic international may argue he suffered injuries and Covid during his first two years. But the fact remains, Firpo is better going forward than defending and suits a team higher up the league.
AC Milan, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid and Lazio all want Firpo and it might be that he suits a side that play on the front foot, rather than one that is going to be at the bottom of a division – focusing on defending.
That is the view of Aidy White, who discussed Firpo’s future on The Square Ball: “He has played a pivotal part so he deserves another contract. But it is the question of whether that is, if he’s enough.
“My opinion is that he’s excellent going forward but I still question his defensive attributes. In the Premier League, we won’t have control. For me, has he got the one-on-one quality and that defensive awareness?
“Can he sit back and not get dragged out of position? You never know, the club might want to get some money back. It’s always nice to have a player you can rely on. Daniel Farke might want him around.”
What Leeds United believe will happen with Junior Firpo now…
In line with EFL rules, Leeds published their retained list earlier this month and it gave little away in terms of Firpo’s future. Like Sam Byram, Leeds confirmed that they remain in talks with the former Barca star.
It is unclear if that is the actual truth, that talks are ongoing. Or it is just buying the club some time before confirming one way or another, Firpo’s future. But, it is ‘widely anticipated’ at Leeds that Firpo departs.
Having done four years at Elland Road and with Firpo knowing his game more than anyone, as well as the level of club showing interest, it is more than likely that Firpo chooses not to sign on in the coming weeks.
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