Junior Firpo is into the final three weeks of his Leeds United contract, with the left-back set to depart unless a renewal is agreed on.
Despite Leeds United holding contract negotiations with Junior Firpo, nothing has yet been agreed between the two parties and Firpo’s agents say remaining with Leeds is ‘unlikely’.
Following the aftermath of the title parade, Firpo sent a message to Paraag Marathe regarding a new contract. Nothing materialised but a decision must be made on his future soon.
Barcelona could be a potential destination for Firpo, as well as AC Milan. While it has also been revealed that Lyon have offered Firpo a contract. One of the other teams is also an Italian giant, as Lazio have shown an interest in Firpo.
Leeds could retain Firpo after Lazio developments emerge
It’s got to the point where some Leeds fans want Firpo gone after becoming tired of the transfer saga but other Leeds fans are not pleased with the latest Firpo news and the volume of interest.
Graham Smyth says there are obstacles to overcome regarding Firpo’s extension with Leeds, but the latest could be positive news in terms of keeping him at the club beyond this season.
Lazio have been one of the most interested clubs in acquiring Firpo on a free transfer. However, yesterday they revealed they had activated the buy option to secure Nuno Tavares permanently from Arsenal.
The left-back featured in 30 games in all competitions for the side, and former Napoli and Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri has opted to sign him just days after being announced as Lazio boss.
It means Firpo would be a back up at best for the side, which is likely to be his role with Leeds next season if he sticks around in West Yorkshire.
He may as well remain at Leeds in that role than join Lazio as a second-choice, although it still would not be at all surprising if he secured a permanent move elsewhere with the promise of regular first-team football as a starter.
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Luca Netz could be the perfect Junior Firpo upgrade for Leeds
Luca Netz is a player Daniel Farke knows well from their time together at Borussia Monchengladbach, albeit the full-back was a younger player then and has become a seasoned defender since.
Following Farke’s departure, Netz has gone on to play 107 times for Gladbach at senior level, having a hand in 19 goals in that time and becoming one of the Bundesliga’s outstanding full-backs.
Leeds were linked with a reunion between Farke and Netz last summer, if the Whites secured promotion. Perhaps it is now a situation they revisit this summer following promotion.
The left-back is one of three potential Firpo alternatives we have suggested. Netz should have the best years ahead of him as well, meaning Leeds could be acquiring a long-term player.
Having both Netz and Firpo as two specialist left-footed full-backs is the ideal situation, with Firpo perhaps somewhat more likely to remain a Leeds player after the latest development.
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