Latest Update On The Future Of 26-Year-Old Leeds United Star: Why Do They Need To Renew Him Fast? | OneFootball

Leeds United are getting ready to hold contract talks with Pascal Struijk once the club’s Premier League status is officially safe for another season. The 26-year-old Dutch centre-back has been a prolific performer during a tough campaign back in the top flight, and sorting out his future is a major priority as the summer transfer window gets closer.

Leeds United prepared to fight for Struijk’s future amid growing Premier League interest

Struijk signed his current deal at Elland Road back in December 2022, which runs until the summer of 2027. He reportedly earns about £50,000 a week, roughly £2.6 million a year. That figure is now well below the going rate for a Premier League centre-back of his quality, and rival clubs are starting to take notice. Aston Villa and Newcastle have both been linked with the defender ahead of the summer, but Leeds United are determined to keep him.

Transfer correspondent Pete O’Rourke confirmed on the Transfer Insider podcast that Daniel Farke sees Struijk as a vital part of his defence and plans to build the team around him next season. Leeds are now six points clear of the drop with only four matches left, giving the club much more breathing room to start these contract discussions.

“He’s got one year left on his contract. I’m sure once this season is finished, or once Leeds do secure Premier League survival, they’ll be looking to sit down and discuss a new contract with Struijk.

“I’m sure Daniel Farke will be determined to keep hold of him and build around him, especially for next season when they hope to be a Premier League club by then.”

Why Leeds United need to act now?

LEEDS, ENGLAND – MARCH 21: Pascal Struijk of Leeds United looks on during the Premier League match between Leeds United and Brentford at Elland Road on March 21, 2026 in Leeds, England. (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)

For Leeds United, there is more pressure here than the club are letting on. Leeds have also been linked with Wolves defender Ladislav Krejci, which has some fans wondering if they see Struijk as truly indispensable or just a valuable asset they could sell to raise funds. That uncertainty is risky. Reports suggest Struijk wants his wages to match Premier League standards, somewhere in the £4–5 million-a-year range, and he is looking for a project where he is guaranteed regular game time. Leeds can’t afford to let this linger.

His recent performance against Bournemouth, where he was easily the best defender on the pitch, showed exactly why selling him would be a huge mistake, no matter the price. The longer Leeds wait, the more Struijk might feel undervalued by a club he has helped through two promotions and a top-flight return.

Waiting for mathematical safety before starting talks sends a weak message to a player that other clubs are already chasing. Leeds United need to show intent, offer him a salary that reflects his importance, and get this deal done. Losing Struijk for a cut-price fee next summer, or on a free in 2027, would be a massive oversight that Daniel Farke’s project simply cannot afford.