Junior Firpo’s future at Leeds United is currently shrouded in uncertainty, with the 28-year-old left-back approaching the final months of his contract at the club. As reported by the Yorkshire Evening Post on 2 February, there has been no indication that the club is close to offering Firpo a new deal, and as it stands, the player’s contract is set to expire at the end of the season. This means that Firpo will be free to negotiate with foreign clubs about a potential move this summer, which adds further pressure to Leeds United as they look to secure the future of one of their most important players.

Firpo joined Leeds in the summer of 2021 from Barcelona for a significant transfer fee, and while his tenure at the club has been mixed at times, he has undoubtedly shown moments of quality. His attacking contributions, particularly in the final third, have been valuable to the team, and he has consistently been a key figure for Leeds United, especially under manager Daniel Farke this season. With 17 appearances in the Championship this campaign, Firpo has had a significant role to play in Leeds’ efforts to gain promotion back to the Premier League. His ability to contribute offensively, getting involved in attacking moves and creating chances, has made him a vital asset in Leeds’ style of play. However, Firpo has also faced some criticism for a lack of consistency in his performances, a criticism that has followed him since his time at Barcelona. Despite this, his overall impact on the team has been undeniable, and he remains one of the standout players in Farke’s squad.

The ongoing uncertainty around Firpo’s contract is further complicated by Leeds United’s current position in the Championship. The club is currently at the top of the table, having recently secured a commanding 7-0 victory over Cardiff City on 1 February. This victory was an important statement of intent, and Leeds United is now considered one of the favorites to secure automatic promotion back to the Premier League this season. If Leeds manages to achieve promotion, it could prove to be a turning point in Firpo’s future. Playing in the Premier League would present Firpo with the opportunity to compete at the highest level once again, and that could be enough to convince him to extend his stay at Elland Road.

However, if Leeds fails to win promotion and remains in the Championship, Firpo could be inclined to seek a move elsewhere. Premier League clubs, along with potential suitors from other top European leagues, could be monitoring his contract situation closely, particularly given his experience at Barcelona and his proven ability in the Championship. Firpo’s quality and versatility make him an attractive target, and without the guarantee of Premier League football, he may decide that his future lies outside of Elland Road. While Leeds United has been performing well this season and has shown strong potential to return to the Premier League, the uncertainty around the club’s future could lead Firpo to explore other opportunities.

In the meantime, Firpo’s backup at left-back, Sam Byram, has been given a chance to step in during Firpo’s absence. Byram has performed decently when called upon, but it’s clear that Firpo is the more established option in the role. While Byram has the experience and familiarity with the club, Firpo’s superior technical ability, pace, and attacking threat from left-back make him the preferred choice for Farke. If Leeds United wants to remain competitive, particularly in the Premier League if they gain promotion, retaining a player of Firpo’s quality would be important. His ability to contribute in both defensive and offensive situations gives Leeds an added dimension to their game, and losing him could create a significant hole in the squad.

For Leeds United, the next few months are crucial in determining Firpo’s future. The club will likely need to act quickly if they want to secure his long-term future at Elland Road, especially given the growing interest from potential suitors. The club’s pursuit of promotion will play a central role in Firpo’s decision, as it will give him an indication of the club’s ambitions and whether they can meet his aspirations of playing at the highest level. If Leeds does manage to secure promotion, Firpo might be more inclined to stay, particularly if the club makes an effort to improve the squad and ensure they can compete in the Premier League.

Leeds United will need to assess their options and their priorities carefully in the coming months. With Firpo’s contract expiring in the summer, they must decide whether to offer him a new deal or risk losing him to a rival club. If the club manages to earn promotion to the Premier League, they will need to ensure they can retain key players like Firpo, who will be vital in their bid to avoid relegation and establish themselves in the top flight. On the other hand, if Leeds remains in the Championship, the club will need to convince Firpo that the future is bright at Elland Road and that he will be a central figure in the team’s push for promotion in the coming seasons.

For Firpo, his decision will ultimately come down to what he values most – whether it’s the opportunity to play in the Premier League once again or the chance to stay at Leeds United and be part of a team with ambitious plans for the future. Whatever the outcome, the coming months will be pivotal in shaping Firpo’s future and the direction of Leeds United as they look to make a return to the Premier League.