Leeds United’s projected strongest XI after exits, with talks ongoing for trio | OneFootball

Leeds United published their retained list on Wednesday, following earlier confirmation that goalkeeper Illan Meslier will depart when his contract expires this summer. Argentine attacker Facundo Buonanotte will return to Brighton at the end of his loan.

Karl Darlow, Sam Byram and Alex Cairns are out of contract this summer, with talks ongoing about their futures. The club face a pivotal window before their second season back in the Premier League.

On the current depth chart, Darlow is the starting goalkeeper after a strong second half of the season replacing Lucas Perri. He is in discussions over a new deal and has reportedly drawn interest from Manchester United as a back-up option.

At right-back, Jayden Bogle is the clear first choice, with James Justin a versatile alternative across the defence.

Joe Rodon is a certain pick at centre-back despite competition, even in the seemingly preferred five-three-two shape.

Jaka Bijol, a summer 2025 signing, impressed in the second half of the campaign and appears best suited to the middle of a back three.

Pascal Struijk complements the trio, with Leeds short of left-footed centre-backs. Reliable and composed, he is out of contract next summer.

On the left, Gabi Gudmundsson is the first-choice full-back. The Sweden international is one of four Leeds players set to compete at the World Cup.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk