Leeds United’s strongest XI and bench after pair depart, with talks ongoing with three | OneFootball

Leeds United have confirmed two departures and opened talks with three out-of-contract players, clarifying the club’s current strongest XI and bench.

According to yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk, Wednesday’s retained list followed the earlier announcement that goalkeeper Illan Meslier will leave when his deal expires this summer, while Facundo Buonanotte returns to parent club Brighton after his loan. Leeds added that Karl Darlow, Sam Byram and Alex Cairns are in discussions over expiring contracts.

With a second Premier League campaign back on the horizon, recruitment could be pivotal, but as things stand the likely XI shapes up in a 5-3-2. In goal, Darlow is first choice after a strong second half of the season following his switch in for Lucas Perri, and he is reportedly of interest to Manchester United as a back-up goalkeeper while Leeds hold talks over a new deal.

Jayden Bogle is the leading option at right back, with James Justin a versatile alternative across the back line.

Joe Rodon is a must at centre-back. Jaka Bijol, a summer 2025 signing, impressed in the second half of the season and appears best suited to the centre of a back three. Left-footer Pascal Struijk is another automatic pick, though he is out of contract next summer.

At left back, Gabi Gudmundsson is first choice and the Swede is one of four Leeds players now set to compete at the World Cup.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk