Leeds unveiled their retained list for the 2024-25 Championship season late on Friday afternoon, announcing 11 departures but another year for full-back Sam Byram whose deal was up in the summer. Leeds, though, have triggered a one-year extension clause within Byram’s contract and are also in talks with Liam Cooper and Jamie Shackleton about extending their contracts.
Luke Ayling and the retiring Stuart Dallas were the big names announced as being released upon their contracts expiring. Ayling, though, had already signed a two-year deal to join Middlesbrough whilst the news that Dallas would be retiring due to the femoral fracture injury that he suffered had already been announced in April.
Ian Poveda and Lewis Bate were among the other players that Leeds announced would be released whilst last season’s loanees Joe Rodon, Connor Roberts and Jaidon Anthony are returning to their parent clubs following the conclusion of their loans.
But the Whites also have a stack of loaned out players that are set to return as things stand. With that in mind, here, we run through an idea of the strongest possible XI and bench from the full squad available at boss Daniel Farke’s disposal, albeit many departures are expected this summer.
19. Sub: Brenden Aaronson
Another of last season's loaned out players and hard to know what the future holds for the USA international winger who still has time on his side as a 23-year-old, Photo: Christian Kaspar-Bartke
20. Sub: Joel Piroe
Down to one place left so Piroe or Mateo Joseph though in reality there would be room for both and also emerging young star midfielder Charlie Crew although there is also Marc Roca to consider, plus the likes of Joe Gelhardt, Sonny Perkins, Sam Greenwood, Darko Gyabi, Jamie Shackleton, Liam Cooper and Charlie Cresswell. Photo: Alex Pantling