There are players who plainly have no future at Elland Road, others whose price tag or wage make their departures almost inevitable and those whose position at the club will be heavily debated before any decisions are reached.
Although the club find themselves in a period of stasis due to the uncertain nature of the ownership picture and a 49ers Enterprises takeover that is yet to be agreed, it is still possible to try and predict what will happen with a small number of players. Rodrigo, for instance, is one of the best bets to say goodbye after three up-and-down seasons at Leeds. A 2020 record signing for around £27m, the ex-Spanish international suffered from injury problems and difficulties finding a natural home in Marcelo Bielsa’s system. He did, however, find relatively profilic goalscoring form in a poor side this season and were it not for his goals then relegation would have been confirmed much earlier. Player of the Season, if there were to be one, would go to him. The forward’s wage, coupled with the value he will retain thanks to those 13 Premier League goals, makes it highly likely that he has played his last game for the club now that they are once again a Championship outfit.
There were sufficient noises about a summer move for Robin Koch even while survival was a going concern to suggest he will soon be off, prioritising his German national team dream and seeking a top-flight club in England or beyond. Junior Firpo’s time at the club is surely coming to an end as well given how poorly things have worked out for the left-back since coming to Elland Road in 2021.
Ultimately, though, everything carries the caveat that until the takeover is sorted then we don’t know who is going to come in and shape the squad, who will manage it and how players will fit into their plans. In the meantime, here’s the YEP’s early predictions, based on a mixture of what we’re hearing and common sense, for who could stay and who could go this summer.
7. Junior Firpo
Whilst Firpo arguably produced some of his best Leeds football towards the end of this season, it doesn't feel enough to warrant pinning the club's left-back hopes to him. Defensive concerns remain, inconsistency has been a problem as much as injuries and the potential for suspension. Best to move on for both parties, really. Photo: LINDSEY PARNABY
8. Pascal Struijk
It feels a lot like Struijk has been particularly damaged by this season, the playing out of position at left-back and the general stress of being in this team. Retains potential, still a player in there undoubtedly but what to do with him now? Might need to leave, possibly even just on loan, to rediscover his confidence. Contracted to 2027. Photo: Stu Forster
9. Max Wober
Clearly more than good enough for the Championship, at a good age, only joined in January. If he's happy to stay, Leeds will be more than happy to keep him. He's one they'll actively try and convince to remain. There's a good chance of it, too. Photo: Julian Finney
10. Leo Hjelde
There are three left-sided centre-backs ahead of him at the club. The loan at Rotherham went well, but not incredibly well. He played at left-back there and wasn't considered ready to be a Championship centre-back. Another loan is possible. Two years left on his deal. If a permanent offer comes, you could see it being considered. Photo: George Wood
11. Robin Koch
His Germany dream will likely dictate what happens this summer. Looks like a certain departure at this stage. Hasn't been so good that Leeds should promise the earth to keep him, hasn't been so bad that teams won't want him. Could recoup the fee they paid for him, at the very least. Photo: Julian Finney
12. Diego Llorente
Bizarrely given a new contract before he was farmed out on loan to Roma. Leeds' belief that he would go to the World Cup and garner attention was unfounded. Injury record has been problematic, form was erratic at Leeds. If they can find a buyer then he goes permanently this summer. Photo: Emilio Andreoli