One nailed-on departure this summer looks to be Junior Firpo, as the left-back could leave after four seasons.
Leeds fans would have mixed views on Firpo after a debatable time at Elland Road.
Some would say due to his past form in the Premier League, the time is right for the 28-year-old to go.
On the other hand, fans might have enjoyed his excellent campaign in the Championship, which gives him every reason to do the same in the top flight.
Firpo joining Lazio now looks unlikely with one club out of the frame, but journalist Graham Smyth has revealed what he thinks is going to happen.
Graham Smyth on Junior Firpo’s Leeds United future
The full-back will probably still be weighing up his decision with Firpo in talks with Leeds over a new deal.
It’s been made clear that the Whites aren’t likely to make signings until after June 30th due to the PSR cut-off.
This means that departures are likely for Leeds in June, and Firpo falls into that category with his contract expiring.
Well, with this considered, Leeds journalist Graham Smyth has spoken to the Inside Elland Road Podcast and revealed his ‘suspicion’ of what is happening behind the scenes.
“My suspicion is that the length of the deal he’s been offered won’t be the same as elsewhere,” Smyth said.
“A question mark still hangs over his head at Premier League level.
“I would be leaning towards an exit (for Firpo).”
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Potential Firpo replacements at Leeds next season
Going off the reliability of Smyth, this looks certain to happen.
The ongoing saga has suggested whether he will stay or not, but the arrow has always been pointing to the exit door.
With this in mind, a solid left-back replacement will be needed, and three left-backs could fit the bill at Leeds.
| Possible Junior Firpo replacements at Leeds United |
| Luca Netz – Borussia Mochengladbach |
| Adrien Truffert – Rennes |
| Rico Henry – Brentford |
All three of these options would replace Firpo and more, with Henry looking like the best candidate due to his Premier League experience.
They were linked with the Brentford left-back when Leeds got promoted in 2020, and it would be an improvement on Firpo through not only in his ability to attack, but his defensive areas are superior.
It will be a sad day when Firpo’s exit comes, and the likelihood is that it’s right around the corner.
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