Leeds confirm exits on retained list, talks continue over Sam Byram, Alex Cairns and Karl Darlow | OneFootball

Leeds United have published their retained list, with Illan Meslier leaving after seven years and loanee Facundo Buonanotte returning to Brighton. The club said in a statement that discussions continue over first-team trio Sam Byram, Alex Cairns and Karl Darlow.

The update follows news that captain Ethan Ampadu has signed a new four-year contract. His previous deal ran to summer 2027, with an option year.

Leeds are keen to keep Darlow as part of next season’s goalkeeping group despite outside interest. He replaced Meslier during the promotion run-in and did the same last season when Lucas Perri was dropped.

Byram has been widely expected to depart after featuring only 86 minutes across all competitions last season. Cairns returned to provide support for the goalkeeping department in an almost player-coach capacity.

Academy exits include Connor Douglas, Devon Brockie, Lewis Pirie and Marley Wilson. Pirie joined from Aberdeen in summer 2023 and featured sparingly for the Under-21s.

Leeds have offered new terms to 20-year-old goalkeeper Darryl Ombang, who had loans with Darlington and FC United of Manchester this season. Professional deals have been offered to Freddie Lane, Jack Morris, Jacob Render, Joshua Hamilton, Will Firth and Northern Ireland Under-19 international Luke Matykiewicz, and the club have taken a third-year option on 18-year-old keeper George Kenyon. Scholars Alex Baird and Elton Simo will leave when their current deals end.

Source: yorkshireevenpost.co.uk